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In the first article of our Asia Private Client & Trust Thought Series, we explore why Cayman Foundation Companies are reshaping offshore structuring. In the evolving world of offshore structuring, Cayman Foundation Companies are emerging as a powerful hybrid — blending the best of both corporate and trust structures. Originally introduced in 2017, these entities have seen a surge in popularity since 2021, and for good reason.
Unlike traditional trusts, Cayman Foundations are legal persons. This means they can hold assets, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in their own name — offering a level of operational simplicity that's often missing in trust structures. Yet they retain the flexibility and purpose-driven nature of trusts, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
So, what makes them so compelling?
- Purpose-Driven Flexibility
Cayman Foundations can be established for any lawful purpose — charitable or non-charitable. They may have beneficiaries, but unlike trusts, those beneficiaries don't automatically have legal standing. Instead, a "Supervisor" can be appointed to oversee the foundation's governance, ensuring accountability without compromising privacy. - No Shareholders Required
One of the most attractive features is the ability to operate without members or shareholders. This "orphaned" ownerless structure enables the creation of an independent entity for purposes such as holding assets, ring-fencing liabilities, facilitating securitizations, and supporting charitable or purpose-driven activities without shareholder influence. - Custom Governance
Foundations can adopt private bylaws that aren't filed publicly, allowing for governance frameworks carefully tailored to the founder's vision. This is especially valuable for families, philanthropists, and Web3 innovators seeking highly bespoke governance arrangements. - Legal Certainty
Built on the Cayman Companies Act and supplemented by the Foundation Companies Act, these entities benefit from a well-established legal framework. Provisions from the Cayman Trusts Act also apply, including the ability for fiduciaries to seek court guidance — offering an added layer of protection.
Use Cases Across Sectors
From private wealth and philanthropy to fintech and DAOs, Cayman Foundations are proving their versatility.
- Fintech and Web3 Projects leverage them to provide an ownerless legal entity ideal for decentralized governance, support of a DAO and managing legal risk.
- Private Clients can use them either as an alternative to a trust altogether or within existing trust structures as a private trust company or corporate protector. They can also be structured to offer a range of bespoke succession planning arrangements.
- Philanthropic Organizations benefit from the legal personality and governance flexibility.
A Modern Solution for Modern Needs
As the financial landscape evolves, so too must the structures we use. Cayman Foundation Companies offer a forward-thinking solution that meets the needs of today's global families, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
If you're exploring new ways to structure assets, govern digital communities, or build lasting philanthropic legacies, it might be time to consider the Cayman Foundation.
Stay tuned for the next article of our Asia Private Client & Trust Thought Series, where we spotlight on other key topics shaping the offshore private client and trust landscape.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
