Small country, strong financial center: Liechtenstein has a lot to offer
The Principality of Liechtenstein has stood for continuity and stability for over 300 years. The country with a triple-A rating, no national debt, a balanced political situation and a high level of legal certainty is therefore an ideal location for financial transactions and investments.
Especially in economically volatile times, which are also characterized by a pandemic, values such as stability, security and continuity are particularly important. Values that Austria’s small neighboring country embodies to a large extent and are therefore becoming increasingly interesting for Austrian investors. Thanks to its location in the heart of Europe, the financial center offers its customers qualified market access to both the EU and Switzerland. Liechtenstein has been a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) for over 25 years. In addition, there is the customs and currency union with Switzerland, which ensures political and economic stability.
tradition and innovation
Liechtenstein has always been based on the European value and legal system. On the one hand, investors and partners trust proven models for preserving wealth over generations and, on the other hand, appreciate the most modern and innovative regulatory solutions at the cutting edge of technological development.
The Liechtenstein financial sector is highly diversified, internationally networked and the third-largest economic sector in the Principality after industry and services. Market participants such as banks, asset managers, investment companies, insurance companies and fiduciaries offer a high level of expertise, many years of experience and a wide range of services for long-term, cross-generational wealth solutions.
In accordance with its legal mandate, the Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority (FMA) ensures stability, customer protection, the avoidance of abuse and the implementation of and compliance with recognized international standards.
Sustainability as a maxim
Sustainability and sustainable investments are in increasing demand worldwide. Sustainability has always been an important concern for Liechtenstein and its financial center and, alongside stability and quality, is one of the three cornerstones of the future strategy.
With its financial center strategy, the government is pursuing the goal of establishing responsible, sustainable action as part of the business culture in the Principality in the interests of clear differentiation from other financial centers.
Liechtenstein banks generally rely on low-risk, long-term business models, refrain from short-term oriented profit-seeking as well as from investment banking and measures not to use state aid even in the financial crisis of 2008. They also have excellent capitalization with an average core capital ratio of over 20%.
Philanthropy in Liechtenstein
Sustainable commitment to the common good is a very big trend. The unique location profile of Liechtenstein charitable foundations and trusts is very attractive to donors worldwide. The number of Liechtenstein charitable foundations is now well over 1,300.
For generations, Liechtenstein has also offered Austrians welcome opportunities for asset management and asset structuring.
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