A trust is a powerful and flexible instrument for succession planning, asset protection, and the long-term stewardship of family wealth and business interests. A properly structured trust separates legal ownership from beneficial enjoyment, ensures continuity across generations, and provides a robust framework for managing family governance, privacy, and the complexities of cross-border assets

Hong Kong has established itself as a premier jurisdiction for trusts, underpinned by its well-regarded common law legal system, progressive trust legislation, and a robust ecosystem of professional service providers. Its strategic position at the heart of Asia further enhances its attractiveness to international families and investors seeking a stable, sophisticated, and reliable environment for wealth structuring and succession planning.

Zetland supports families, entrepreneurs, and investors through the full lifecycle of trust services and we are licensed to act as corporate trustee in Hong Kong but may also act for trusts settled in other jurisdictions. From initial planning and trust setup to ongoing administration, we ensure the settlor's wishes are clearly defined and effectively carried out. This involves defining the trust's purposes and beneficiaries, establishing clear decision-making authorities, and appointing the most suitable trustees (if and when applicable), protectors, advisors, and investment managers.

We assist in documenting clear policies for distributions and investments, ensuring that all records are maintained and comprehensive for relevant accounting and auditing. We work in closely with legal and tax advisors to ensure full compliance with all regulations and reporting obligations, following strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards at every stage. Also meeting the reporting requirements of the Common Reporting System (CRS) and US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) where necessary.

Many trusts hold assets through underlying companies, which we can also administer or monitor.