Latest news with #Arton
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Plan B for the Ultra-Rich: Why Global Citizenship Is Now a Strategic Asset
The ultra-wealthy are seeking more than just financial diversification, they want freedom, security, and control over their futures. Increasingly, that means investing in a second passport which is now considered a necessity among the ultra-wealthy. According to Armand Arton, CEO of global advisory firm Arton Capital, second residencies or passports are no longer simply lifestyle upgrades, they're strategic investments. 'A second residency or citizenship has become one of the most coveted assets among the ultra-wealthy,' Arton explains. 'It's driven by ambitions for improved mobility, security, and futureproofing. For many, it's a hedge against uncertainty.' Once the domain of jetsetters seeking easier travel, second citizenship has evolved into a powerful tool of geopolitical insurance. But mobility is only one piece of the puzzle. 'Acquiring a European Golden Visa, for example, grants access to the Schengen Zone and Europe's most dynamic markets. This empowers high-net-worth individuals to expand their businesses, explore new opportunities, and enjoy unrestricted travel,' says Arton. But the motivations go deeper. Security, both personal and financial has become paramount. 'Elections, pandemics, and the climate crisis serve as a stark reminder of how quickly freedoms can be revoked and situations can change,' he adds. 'Second residencies and citizenships now act as a crucial hedge against geopolitical uncertainty and economic instability.' Over the past ten years, demand for second citizenships has surged, particularly in response to crises. 'Each year, interest in Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment Programmes grows by around 15–20%,' Arton notes. 'The conflict in Ukraine and the outbreak of Covid-19 were major catalysts. And we're likely to see a similar uptick in response to tensions currently gripping the Middle East.' What's more, the industry itself has evolved. 'It has matured. Programmes are becoming more tailored to each country's needs. There are a large number available investors are spoilt for choice.' Arton predicts similar trends will follow in response to rising tensions in the Middle East and elsewhere. 'Savvy investors are always looking ahead. When uncertainty spikes, demand for second citizenship rises with it.' While financial advantages are often cited, Arton stresses that wealth migration isn't solely about reducing tax burdens. 'There's a common misconception that taxation is the main driver. In reality, clients are usually motivated by freedom, security, or a lifestyle upgrade.' Still, taxation can play a role, especially in countries where citizenship programmes offer favourable treatment. 'Latvia, for example, has a 20% capital gains tax and no wealth tax for non-residents. Italy offers a flat-tax option on foreign income,' says Arton. 'But benefits vary based on an investor's home country. American citizens, for instance, are still taxed on their worldwide income, no matter where they live.' As the investment migration industry matures, it's also integrating more deeply into wealth management strategies. No longer seen as a fringe add-on, global citizenship is now a pillar of high-net-worth planning. 'It complements traditional financial planning by offering geographical diversification, market access, and personal security,' Arton explains. Clients often invest in real estate or government funds to qualify. 'These investments not only diversify portfolios but also shield assets from economic volatility. Perhaps most importantly, they provide long-term benefits for family members from access to healthcare and education, to global mobility.' This isn't just about protecting money, it's about preserving legacy. Arton Capital positions itself not just as a facilitator, but as a thought leader. 'We've advised over 13 governments on citizenship and visa policy. We want investment migration to benefit both our clients and the host countries,' says Arton. That level of influence means Arton Capital has a hand in shaping how programmes are designed and how they function ensuring they benefit both investors and host countries. He notes, 'We want to be at the forefront of this evolution.' The real power of second citizenship becomes most visible in moments of crisis. Arton recalls one case from recent years: 'During the political unrest in Hong Kong, where protestors clashed with police and uncertainty loomed, we helped a client gain citizenship in Antigua. With his new passport, he relocated almost immediately, avoided the fallout, and continued operating his business from a stable environment.' That kind of agility, the ability to move, adapt, and safeguard your family or business is the ultimate utility of investment migration. One of Arton Capital's most recent initiatives saw the firm collaborate with Techcombank Private, one of Vietnam's largest banks, on a series of 'Wealth Management and Global Investment Opportunity' seminars. 'We were selected as their exclusive strategic adviser,' says Arton. 'Vietnam's HNWIs are increasingly looking for global diversification, and we helped educate their teams on how second citizenship fits into that strategy.' With most of Vietnam's wealthy banking through Techcombank, the partnership made sense. 'They're seeing major growth in their foreign exchange business VND 100bn last year, aiming for 500bn in 2025, and 1,00bn by 2026. These citizenship services are key drivers in that FX growth.' Looking ahead, Arton Capital is turning its focus toward other fast-growing Asian markets. 'We're especially interested in Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia,' Arton says. 'These countries have a growing upper-middle class and high-net-worth population. Many are now seeking outbound mobility.' At the same time, these countries are developing their own inbound residency programmes like Thailand's Elite Visa and Malaysia's 'My Second Home' scheme, suggesting strong potential both for incoming and outgoing investment. More broadly, the forces driving demand for second citizenship show no signs of slowing. 'With a geopolitical crisis unfolding in the Middle East, economic uncertainty across global markets, and ongoing political turmoil, the demand for a 'Plan B' has never been greater,' Arton concludes. "Plan B for the Ultra-Rich: Why Global Citizenship Is Now a Strategic Asset" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Time of India
23-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE safest hub for parking money, to attract more millionaires despite Israel-Iran conflict, say immigration experts
The United Arab Emirates will attract more millionaires and continue to remain a paradise for high-net-worth individuals despite the tensions prevailing in the Middle East following the Israel-Iran war. Several international migration consultants and wealth managers believe that despite the conflict, the Emirates is still the safest country to park money and has always been a stronger magnet in a time of crisis in the Gulf region. In an interview to The Khaleej Times, Armand Arton, CEO of leading immigration investment firm Arton Capital, claimed that he is hopeful the UAE will continue attracting even more millionaires than it had in the last five years. He said that the Emirates has always been the safest hub because of the infrastructure, the safety nets, the rule of law, the quality of life and the low tax. Citing the Russia-Ukraine war and Donald Trump's return to power in the US, Arton said that the conflict between Moscow and Kyiv was the last big wave of wealth that came in. He further stated that the taxation in the UK and the politics of Europe created a second wave of Europeans. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Build Your Dream Villa Near Bengaluru Airport Sumadhura Group Learn More Undo Talking about the third wave of Americans, the Arton Capital CEO said that it came after US President Trump was elected, as a lot of Democrats and others moved to the UAE. 'We see that very high profile of people coming in and asking for the Golden Visa,' he added. UAE attracted around 13,000 new millionaires in 2024, says report Live Events Armand Arton's claim was strongly backed by the UBS Global Wealth Report 2025, which came out on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, stating that the Emirates attracted around 13,000 new millionaires in 2024, which is a 5.8 per cent increase. The rise brings the total number of high-net-worth individuals in the country to 240,343. The millionaires in the UAE command approximately $785 billion (2.88 trillion) in wealth, according to The Khaleej Times. 'War always comes with a very high human cost, but a localised conflict like the current situation is likely to have a very limited macroeconomic effect. Unless there is a major escalation, we would not see this as significantly changing global macro trends, including migration,' said Paul Donovan, chief economist at UBS Global Wealth Management. Iran-Israel war 'will create a new wave of people, says Arton The Arton Capital CEO said that the Iran-Israel conflict, which escalated sharply after the US struck three nuclear sites in Iran on Sunday (June 22, 2025), 'will create a new wave of people from the neighbouring country who will come to the UAE and who are still considering that this is the safest place to park their money and family.'
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Business Standard
16-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
UAE Golden Visa via yacht: Will you spend Rs 43 cr for Dubai life?
Are you willing to shell out Rs 43 crore for Dubai or Abu Dhabi residency? The United Arab Emirates has expanded its long-term residency programme to include an entirely new class of elite residents—superyacht owners and key figures in the yachting industry. The 10-year Golden Visa, which has already drawn investors through real estate and entrepreneurship, is now being offered to individuals who own 40-metre yachts or hold senior roles in the maritime sector. For India's ultra-rich, this opens another path to UAE residency, but it's one that comes with high entry costs and considerable upkeep. Business Standard spoke to experts in the UAE's luxury marine industry to understand how the visa works, what it costs, and whether it's a practical option for wealthy Indian families and businesspeople. A visa built around yachting — who qualifies? The UAE's new offering extends the Golden Visa to: • Owners of private yachts measuring at least 40 metres in length • CEOs, major shareholders, and central agents in the yachting business • Professionals involved in yacht services, including brokerage, repairs, and insurance • Immediate family members of the main applicant Unlike traditional UAE visas, the Golden Visa allows the holder to live outside the country for long stretches without losing residency. This makes it more flexible for globe-trotting billionaires or family offices with interests across jurisdictions. 'The UAE, already a powerhouse in finance, aviation, real estate, and hospitality, is now setting sail to become the region's premier marina destination, using Golden Visas to anchor a world-class maritime community,' said Armand Arton, CEO of Arton Capital, a global investment migration firm. Why the UAE wants yacht owners to dock long-term Dubai's existing Golden Visa for property investors—requiring a minimum AED 2 million (approx. Rs 4.68 crore)—has already attracted international interest. But this new maritime category pushes the bar higher. 'It's clear that the UAE isn't just selling real estate anymore. It's selling a lifestyle,' Arton told Business Standard. He believes the move signals the UAE's intent to position itself as the next Monaco or Miami for the super-rich. The addition of superyacht owners to the visa programme is not just about luxury; it's about attracting residents who bring status, networks, and global visibility. For Indian families with offshore holdings and business expansion plans in the Gulf, the appeal is straightforward: low taxes, business access, and the ability to sponsor family members—all tied to a lifestyle of private marinas and luxury cruising. But it's not just about docking a boat, it's a financial commitment Marcus Giltay, CEO and founder of Marcus Yachting, a superyacht brokerage in Dubai, explained what the market for 40-metre yachts actually looks like, and why the visa only suits a small group of ultra-wealthy individuals. 'The starting price for a 40-metre yacht can vary significantly depending on whether it's a new build or pre-owned, the builder, and the level of customisation,' Giltay told Business Standard. Basic cost breakdown: New builds: Normally priced between €15 million and €25 million (around Rs 149.51 crore to Rs 269.25 million). Some highly customised yachts can exceed €40 million (about Rs 398.73 crore). Pre-owned yachts: Can range from $5 million (Rs 43 crore) for older models in good condition to $15–25 million (about Rs 129.11 crore - Rs 215.11 crore) for more recent vessels Giltay noted that online listings sometimes display charter prices—around $3,500 (Rs 3 lakh) to $4,400 (Rs 3.8 lakh) per hour for a 40-metre yacht in Dubai—but those rates don't reflect purchase costs Owning a yacht: What's the annual damage? Yacht ownership is not a one-time expense. Ongoing operational costs are typically pegged at 10% of the yacht's value per year. Annual running costs for a $20 million (about Rs 172 crore) yacht can include: Crew salaries: A full crew (captain, engineers, stewards, chef) could cost between $250,000 and $630,000 (Rs 2.08 crore and 5.25 crore) annually Maintenance and repairs: Routine servicing, refits, and surprise issues; usually around 10% of the yacht's value Fuel: Depends on engine type, travel frequency, and cruising habits; large yachts consume hundreds of litres per hour Insurance: About 1.5% to 3% of the yacht's value each year Marina berthing: In top Dubai marinas, this can run from $6,300 to $31,500 per month Licensing and flag state registration: This varies based on where the yacht is registered and operated Provisioning: Supplies for guests and crew—food, drink, cleaning materials, and more Depreciation: Yachts depreciate like luxury cars, often 10% in year one and 7% per year after These expenses are usually managed by a yacht management company, but the owner still bears the financial weight. Are yachts ever seen as investments? 'In the UAE, buyers predominantly treat yachts as luxury assets that facilitate a lifestyle, offer leisure, and provide exclusive networking opportunities,' Giltay said. There are four main reasons why people invest in a yacht: • To enjoy personal use and leisure with family and guests • To host private events and high-net-worth networking • To generate occasional charter income (though rarely enough to cover all costs) • To enhance personal brand and social status 'Unlike real estate in Dubai, which can appreciate significantly, yachts generally depreciate. They're not financial investments in the conventional sense,' he added. Who's buying these yachts in the UAE? According to Giltay, the buyer base is global. Key demographics: Locals: Emiratis with deep roots in maritime tradition Indian HNWIs: A growing segment in the Dubai luxury asset market Europeans and Russians: Drawn by climate, business access, and tax structure Asians and Gulf nationals: Including buyers from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar Younger entrepreneurs: Average buyer age is falling from 65–70 to 40–50, with newer buyers prioritising innovation and sustainability 'There's a clear trend of younger owners entering the scene, especially those from the tech sector,' Giltay said. However, the number of Indian yacht owners is not publicly available. Yacht vs apartment: Which visa route is more practical? For comparison: Golden Visa via property: • AED 2 million investment in real estate (around Rs 4.69 crore) • Includes off-plan or mortgaged properties under certain conditions • Ongoing costs limited to service charges and property taxes • More accessible and far more affordable Golden Visa via yacht: • Minimum $5 million (about Rs 43 crore) for a basic qualifying yacht, $15–25 million for new builds • Ongoing costs run into millions annually • Mostly for individuals who already intend to own a yacht and will benefit from the added visa incentive 'For visa purposes alone, the property route is vastly more cost-effective,' Giltay said. 'The yacht route is best suited to those who want a yacht anyway and are just leveraging it for added benefit.' Have visa incentives boosted yacht sales? According to Giltay, the new yacht-based visa hasn't yet caused a major bump in sales. 'Recent reports from February 2025, including those from the Dubai International Boat Show and companies like Gulf Craft and Azimut, show interest but not a major spike in sales driven solely by the visa,' he said. Instead, the Golden Visa is seen as a 'value add' for those already planning a yachting lifestyle in Dubai. It gives another reason to formalise residence and spend more time in the UAE. Any hurdles for Indian nationals keen on the yacht route? Yes, and many of them relate to cross-border finance, legal registration, and capital movement, explained Giltay. According to him, some of them are as follows: Financing: Marine loans in the UAE are available, but Indian buyers may face restrictions when moving funds abroad due to RBI's Liberalised Remittance Scheme Repatriation rules: Bringing money into the UAE is one thing; taking it back out can raise issues with tax authorities in India Flag state decisions: The country in which the yacht is registered affects taxes, legal jurisdiction, and operating freedom Customs clearance: Yachts brought into the UAE from overseas need to clear import procedures Crew hiring: Building a full team and finding reliable managers can be time-consuming Berth availability: Finding space for large yachts in central marinas is not always guaranteed Local regulations: Knowledge of UAE maritime rules, safety standards, and operational zones is essential Due diligence: High-value assets carry high fraud risk, making it vital to verify the brokerage and inspect the yacht thoroughly 'None of these are impossible, but they require experience, planning, and the right advisers,' Giltay said. Is this visa route working for Indian buyers? 'Early interest has mainly come from wealthy foreigners who already see the UAE as a launchpad for global business and as a new home for a luxury lifestyle,' said Arton. He added that while younger, tech-driven entrepreneurs are entering the yachting world, the segment remains dominated by established businesspeople in their 50s and 60s. 'Given the high eligibility threshold of owning a superyacht over 40 metres, this visa is likely to mainly appeal to seasoned investors with significant capital and existing connections to the region's private wealth ecosystem,' he said.
Hi Dubai
06-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Ranks Among Top Destinations for German Millionaires Seeking Relocation
The UAE has been ranked among the top 10 destinations where German millionaires plan to relocate within the next year, driven by economic concerns, high taxes, and political shifts in Germany. A recent survey commissioned by investor migration consultancy Arton Capital revealed that 11% of German high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are considering moving to the UAE, attracted by its safety, security, zero income tax, and lucrative real estate market. Key Survey Findings The survey, conducted between February 24 and March 3, 2025, included 1,000 German millionaires aged 18 to 70 with a net worth of at least €1 million, 18% of whom have over €5 million. The UAE ranked seventh globally in the list of preferred relocation destinations. The top six destinations for German millionaires include Canada, Australia, the US, New Zealand, Spain, and the Netherlands. Why German Millionaires Are Choosing the UAE Armand Arton, CEO of Arton Capital, highlighted several factors driving the shift: Geopolitical and Economic Concerns: The German economy has struggled to recover post-COVID, with additional burdens from the Ukraine-Russia war leading to soaring energy costs and declining productivity. The German economy has struggled to recover post-COVID, with additional burdens from the Ukraine-Russia war leading to soaring energy costs and declining productivity. Stability and Safety: Wealthy individuals prioritize security, and the UAE provides a safe environment where they can freely enjoy their assets, including luxury cars and properties. Wealthy individuals prioritize security, and the UAE provides a safe environment where they can freely enjoy their assets, including luxury cars and properties. Favorable Tax Policies: Unlike other financial hubs such as Switzerland, Monaco, or Singapore, the UAE does not impose personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals. Unlike other financial hubs such as Switzerland, Monaco, or Singapore, the UAE does not impose personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals. Booming Real Estate Market: Many relocating millionaires invest in UAE's luxury real estate sector, either for personal use or as an investment. The UAE's Growing Appeal for HNWIs According to Henley & Partners, the UAE remains the world's leading destination for millionaire migration, with an expected net inflow of over 6,700 millionaires in 2024—more than any other country. The country continues to attract investors from India, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, reinforcing its status as a global wealth hub. The Global Race for HNWIs Arton noted that wealthy Germans are increasingly seeking a 'Plan B' outside their home country. With political fatigue setting in, demand for alternative citizenship and relocation options is rising across Europe. Countries worldwide are competing to attract millionaires, offering incentives ranging from favorable tax policies to golden visa programs. As economic and political shifts continue, the UAE's business-friendly environment, strategic location, and investor-friendly policies ensure it remains a top choice for wealthy expatriates looking for long-term residency. News Source: Khaleej Times
