When thinking about long-term Asset Protection, Succession Planning, or supporting a charitable cause, a foundation can be an ideal structure. Under Swiss law, a foundation is a separate legal entity that dedicates assets to a specific purpose, offering legal certainty, stability, and potential tax advantages. Whether for asset protection, family wealth preservation, or philanthropy, a foundation provides a framework to preserve and apply assets over the long term.
A foundation offers a high level of asset protection. Once established, the foundation’s assets are legally separate from the founder’s estate, safeguarding them from creditors, divorce settlements or inheritance disputes. This separation ensures wealth remains intact and serves its intended purpose without being fragmented across generations.
For family businesses, a foundation also supports continuity and stability. By transferring ownership interests to a foundation, founders can prevent disputes among heirs and establish binding rules for corporate strategy, management, and profit distribution. This ensures that the business and family wealth are preserved and guided by the founder’s long-term vision.
Foundations can also serve charitable or cultural purposes. Under certain conditions, charitable foundations benefit from tax exemptions, and donations to them may be tax-deductible. This allows founders to institutionalise their philanthropy and ensure their charitable intentions continue across generations.
Creating a foundation involves a public deed or testamentary disposition, supported by a clear charter outlining its purpose, assets and organisation. Once incorporated, the foundation is subject to oversight by Swiss authorities to ensure it operates within the law. Any amendment to its purpose is strictly regulated, reinforcing its permanence and stability.
Foundations are therefore well suited for those who wish to preserve assets, ensure family and business continuity, or pursue charitable objectives over the long term.
At Alpadis, we specialise in guiding individuals and families through the complexities of wealth planning and foundation establishment. Our team of legal and wealth planning experts can help you design and implement a foundation that reflects your personal or family objectives. From asset protection to succession and philanthropy, we provide tailored solutions to ensure stability, continuity and a lasting legacy.
Contact us today to begin planning your future.
