Guernsey
Guernsey has a well established reputation as a major centre for the provision of trust and corporate services. The island has provided clients with fiduciary services for over forty years and is renowned world-wide for its professionalism, service quality, regulatory framework and depth of experience.
Guernsey’s proximity to London and other European markets and its English speaking personnel make it a highly attractive proposition for clients. Constitutionally Guernsey is a self-governing dependency of the Crown, with its own Courts and legislative assembly, the States of Guernsey. The UK retains responsibility for the island’s defense and international relations. The island is not part of the European Union, but is within the Community Customs Territory.
With its historic ties to Normandy, the island’s legislation used to follow Norman law until the 20th century when English law became the primary influence on legislation. Business law in Guernsey is profoundly influenced by English common law.
Guernsey’s finance industry is regulated by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission, this autonomous, non-governmental entity guarantees that the industry continues to meet international standards. It also takes a pragmatic approach thus assisting in maintaining Guernsey’s position as one of the leading offshore centres in the world.