Foundations

Foundations in London: An Overview

London foundations offer a flexible and robust legal structure for wealth management, succession planning, charitable purposes, and corporate structuring. Governed under UK law, foundations combine elements of trusts and corporate entities, providing an attractive option for individuals and businesses seeking a structured yet adaptable vehicle.

Key Features of London Foundations:

• Legal Personality – Unlike a trust, a UK foundation has a separate legal identity, allowing it to own assets, enter into contracts, and conduct transactions in its own name.

• No Shareholders or Beneficiaries – Unlike a company, a foundation is not owned by shareholders but is managed by a Council, providing flexibility and control over its operations.

• Founder’s Intentions – The foundation operates under a Charter and Rules, which set out its purpose, governance, and decision-making framework.

• Private or Charitable Purposes – London foundations can be established for private wealth management, estate planning, philanthropy, or corporate structuring.

• Confidentiality – While the foundation’s Charter may be publicly accessible, the Rules (detailing beneficiaries and management structure) are typically kept confidential.

Uses of London foundations:

• Wealth & Estate Planning – Suitable for high-net-worth individuals and families aiming for asset protection, succession planning, and wealth transfer across generations.

• Charitable & Philanthropic Purposes – Utilized to establish structured, long-term charitable giving frameworks.

• Corporate Holding Structures – Useful for corporate structuring, joint ventures, and holding intellectual property rights.

The UK’s stable regulatory environment, comprehensive legal framework, and international reputation make it a premier jurisdiction for establishing foundations, offering a dependable solution for wealth preservation and strategic asset management.