Double trouble, US Expats feel the burden of FATCA

US anti-tax evasion legislation known as FATCA – the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act – has caused upheaval among the American expat community and dual Swiss-US nationals living in Switzerland where it was agreed in February. “People are very angry and upset but some are really scared,” declared Jackie Bugnion, a director and tax specialist … Read more

Panama as an Expat Destination

Panama has a long history of being very professional and courteous with international investors and bankers. The investment and banking culture in the country is very favorable for anyone seeking to either hold accounts or investments offshore as part of an overall asset protection strategy and for anyone seeking an expat retirement. But there are … Read more

An American in Paris (or Shanghai or Tel Aviv) – Part 3

How to retain your account in a Foreign Financial Institution A. Overview In my last installment, I discussed the benefits of a private placement insurance contract (life insurance or annuity) issued by a life insurer domiciled in Puerto Rico – Isla del Encanto – for Americans living overseas. Aside from providing tax-advantages, the Puerto Rican … Read more

Offshore Life Insurance to Protect Your Family

You’re young. Life is good and you are settling into your new role as a parent and, quite possibly, the sole provider for your young family and dependents. As your thoughts turn to the future, it only makes sense you want to secure the prosperity and financial security of your young family if anything happens … Read more

PFIC Problem for Americans with Offshore Investments

WARNING: U.S. Persons who Purchased a Retirement Plan, Savings Plan issued from the Isle of Man, Dublin, Guernsey or U.K. Life Insurance Company are holding a British Style Life Policy (lump sum or savings plan) which requires annual reporting as a PFIC and suffers annual taxes on the growth of 36.9% and huge annual penalties … Read more

An American in Paris (or Shanghai or Tel Aviv)

  Part 1: Using Tax-Advantaged Investment Solutions While Living Overseas Overview According to the American Citizens Abroad, there are five-seven million American citizens living outside of the United States on a fulltime basis. I for one am green with envy. I grew up in the Panama Canal Zone and know “first hand” that it can … Read more