Latest news with #DominicJones
Forbes
18-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How Strategic Residency Is Becoming A Boardroom Issue
Dominic Jones, Managing Director, Origin Capital Partners & Greener Pastures New Zealand. The European Court of Justice's recent decision to strike down Malta's golden passport program marks the end of a chapter in global migration policy. More importantly, it signals a wider pivot in how governments view investor migration. Overall, they are moving away from passive capital inflows and toward meaningful, long-term economic alignment. As someone who works directly with high-net-worth individuals navigating this space, I've seen how this shift is affecting not just applicants but the business leaders who advise them. In today's uncertain geopolitical landscape, cross-border mobility is becoming essential to enterprise resilience. Once the domain of the ultra-wealthy seeking a second passport for convenience or status, strategic residency has entered the boardroom as a risk management tool. Executives, founders and investors are actively evaluating their options not only for lifestyle or taxation purposes but to safeguard operations, talent and capital in an increasingly fragmented world. The End Of 'Citizenship For Sale' The EU ruling represents a clear message: The era of "buy-a-passport" schemes may be over, at least in many advanced Western democracies. The concern, according to the court, was that such programs commoditized national identity and allowed applicants to sidestep the deeper vetting processes that come with permanent migration. This has implications far beyond Malta. Other nations with similar programs have already removed or begun rethinking their offerings. As ever, change brings opportunity. The demise of low-barrier citizenship programs opens the door for a new generation of strategic residency pathways—ones that are more rigorous, aligned with national priorities and sustainable in the long run. Strategic Residency As Corporate Risk Management From my conversations with clients and peers within the industry, it's clear that a second residency is quickly becoming a key part of continuity planning. The war in Ukraine, heightened tensions across the Taiwan Strait, ongoing instability in the Middle East and domestic political polarization in major markets have all contributed to a new calculus. Where will my leadership team be safe and operational in the event of regional conflict? How can I preserve mobility for employees and board members? What jurisdictions offer not just legal safety, but reputational integrity? In that context, strategic residency options are increasingly seen as a form of geopolitical diversification. Just as savvy investors don't put all their capital into one market, global executives are realizing they don't want to place all their people and operations within a single national framework. Key Features Of Future-Proof Residency Programs Programs that I see succeeding in this new era share three key characteristics: 1. Economic Alignment: These programs don't just accept capital; they direct it to areas of strategic national value. In New Zealand, for instance, the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa encourages growth investments in operating businesses and local funds, not passive real estate speculation. 2. High Vetting Standards: Modern programs require meaningful background checks, financial transparency and applicant engagement. This increases the legitimacy of the program and reduces political backlash. 3. Integration Over Isolation: The best programs aren't about hiding wealth abroad or parking capital. They attract applicants who want to participate in the local economy as investors, mentors, board members and sometimes even residents. This benefits both the applicant and the host country. Why Boards Should Care At the board level, the implications are growing clearer. Strategic residency can support: • Executive Relocation And Retention: Offering flexibility in where senior leadership can live and work is a growing perk for top talent. • Cross-Border Investment Planning: Certain jurisdictions offer stability that can underpin global expansion or hedge against domestic disruption. • Family And Wealth Protection: Residency programs often come with enhanced legal protections for personal and corporate assets. These considerations are no longer fringe or speculative. They are increasingly on the agenda at quarterly meetings and in succession planning sessions. Advice For Business Leaders If you're a decision maker in today's complex business environment, here are a few steps I often recommend to clients: • Audit your geographic risk. Assess where your leadership, IP and capital are based. Are you overly exposed to one market? • Evaluate long-term fit. Look beyond tax benefits. Consider alignment with your company's values, strategic industries and growth potential. • Partner with trusted advisors. Work with local firms who understand both the legal framework and cultural landscape of your target jurisdiction. With this changing stance on these types of international investments, we are seeing a smarter, more strategic approach to global residency taking place. Governments are right to demand more from applicants, but the best applicants, like successful founders, investors and executives, are also demanding more from governments. They want to contribute, not just gain access. As the conversation shifts from convenience to contribution, business leaders would be wise to pay attention. In a world of rising uncertainty, the right residency isn't just a personal perk. It could be one of the most strategic assets on your company's balance sheet. 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Business Wire
26-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
New Zealand Named One of the World's Most Peaceful and Prosperous Countries, Surging Past Global Powers in 2025 Rankings
AUCKLAND, New Zealand--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As global conflict and instability escalate, Greener Pastures New Zealand, a premier investment and lifestyle advisory firm specializing in New Zealand's AIP residency, is spotlighting the nation's exceptional performance in the 2025 Global Peace Index, where New Zealand ranks as the third most peaceful country in the world and the most peaceful in the Asia-Pacific region. With a 3.1% improvement in its peacefulness score year-over-year, at a time when most countries are deteriorating, New Zealand continues to attract a surge of interest from high-net-worth families and global investors seeking long-term security and prosperity. In addition to its Peace Index performance, New Zealand also stood out in the newly released 2025 Global Liveability Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), with Auckland ranking #7 and Wellington ranking #20 among the most liveable cities in the world. The rankings reflect New Zealand's exceptional quality of life, infrastructure, education, and overall stability. Key drivers for individuals considering long-term relocation. The Global Peace Index, published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, measures 163 countries across 23 indicators. New Zealand received near-perfect scores in societal safety, political stability, and conflict avoidance, with only modest increases in military spending and weapons imports as part of ongoing modernization efforts. 'This ranking reinforces what our clients already know; New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to build a life,' said Dominic Jones, Managing Director of Greener Pastures New Zealand. 'From its safety and stability to its clean environment, strong institutions, and welcoming communities, New Zealand delivers an unmatched blend of opportunity and peace of mind.' The report's findings come at a time when New Zealand's reputation as a peaceful and prosperous nation is driving increased demand for its Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa program, which Greener Pastures New Zealand facilitates. The program offers a streamlined path to residency for eligible investors, many of whom are now choosing New Zealand in response to growing geopolitical fragmentation abroad. The Global Peace and Liveability rankings also reinforce New Zealand's broader quality-of-life advantages. The country ranks above the OECD average in education, healthcare, and environmental quality, and outperforms dozens of nations that once dominated global rankings; including the U.S. (now ranked 128th) and the U.K. (30th). 'At Greener Pastures, we're seeing a significant increase in inquiries from individuals and families who want more than just an investment. They want a future,' Jones added. 'They're looking for a place with world-class healthcare, smart governance, a deep connection to nature, and an environment where their families can thrive. That's exactly what New Zealand offers.' For more information on Greener Pastures New Zealand, please visit About Greener Pastures New Zealand Greener Pastures New Zealand is a premier investment and lifestyle advisory firm specializing in facilitating high-net-worth investor residency through New Zealand's Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa program. As a subsidiary of Origin Capital Partners, the firm provides tailored investment products and lifestyle transition support, ensuring a smooth relocation process for high-net-worth investors. Its government-approved Diversified Fund meets AIP visa criteria, while its tailored lifestyle services ensure a smooth transition, from real estate and education to local expertise. Led by Managing Director Dominic Jones and Board Chairman Simon Botherway, Greener Pastures helps global investors build secure, sustainable futures in one of the world's most desirable destinations. Learn more at
South Wales Guardian
22-06-2025
- South Wales Guardian
Dyfed-Powys Police rolling out safety scheme across force
Dyfed-Powys Police will now use disruption teams as part of Project Vigilant, which aims to prevent sexual and violent offences before they happen. Project Vigilant was first piloted in Carmarthenshire over the Christmas period and will now be expanded force-wide. Chief Inspector Dominic Jones said: "This was a new project for Dyfed-Powys Police that we trialled over the busy Christmas period. "It is an innovative approach to keeping vulnerable people safe while they're out in the evening that has been successful in other forces, and I am pleased to confirm that we will soon be adopting the project across all four divisions." The scheme uses plain-clothed officers trained to spot predatory behaviour, supported by uniformed colleagues who intervene to disrupt potential offences before they occur. Officers are deployed based on intelligence to ensure they are in the right place at the right time. The teams use behavioural observation training to identify individuals displaying predatory behaviour, allowing uniformed officers to step in when necessary. The pilot was funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner under the Serious Violence Duty. On one night during the pilot, plain-clothed officers helped safeguard a vulnerable woman who had become separated from her friends. Uniformed officers were alerted and ensured she got home safely. Chief Inspector Jones said: "Everyone should feel safe on a night out, and nobody should feel the need to change their behaviour to avoid becoming a victim. "By looking out for potential predators, we will ultimately be changing the behaviours of those who could cause harm and making our communities safer for all." Officers involved in the project have praised the training and approach. One officer said: "The input about what behaviours to look out for while on foot patrol is really beneficial to all, protecting members of the public by asking these individuals what they are doing, and being professionally curious. "That one interaction could stop a sexual assault as the suspect will know they're being watched." PCC Dafydd Llywelyn welcomed the wider rollout. Mr Llywelyn said: "I'm pleased to see Project Vigilant now being rolled out across all four divisions following a successful pilot over the Christmas period. "This is a proactive and intelligence-led approach that puts officers in the right place at the right time to identify and disrupt predatory behaviour before harm is caused."
South Wales Guardian
12-06-2025
- South Wales Guardian
Police provide update after bomb squad called to Llanelli
Yesterday (Wednesday, June 11), a bomb disposal unit attended New Dock Road as part of an ongoing police operation. A 100-metre cordon was put in place for public safety before a 57-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of offences under The Explosive Substances Act. A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: 'Officers have now left the scene at New Dock Road, Llanelli. 'We want to again thank the local community for their patience and understanding while the incident was brought to a safe conclusion yesterday evening. 'A 57-year-old man, from Llanelli, remains in police custody as the investigation continues.' The cordon caused surrounding roads to close such as Trinity Terrace, Trinity Road, Copperworks Road, New Dock Road, Marged Street. Residents within the cordon were contacted directly by officers and a rest centre was set up at Llanelli Leisure Centre to support those affected by the disruption. During the incident, members of the public were also advised to avoid the area and stay informed via official police channels. Meanwhile, the device found at the address was made safe, and police have confirmed there is no wider threat to the public. Residents who had been asked to leave their properties were then told they could return home, and all roads were reopened. Chief Inspector Dominic Jones has thanked the community for their support and no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
Western Telegraph
12-06-2025
- Western Telegraph
Bomb disposal team called to Llanelli after device found
Specialist officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit attended the scene on June 23, following a warrant executed under The Explosive Substances Act. Police enforced a 100-metre safety cordon, closing several roads including Trinity Terrace, Trinity Road, Copperworks Road, New Dock Road, and Marged Street, as a precaution while the device was investigated. A 57-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of offences under The Explosive Substances Act and remains in police custody. The device found at the address was made safe, and police have confirmed there is no wider threat to the public. Residents living within the cordon were asked to leave their homes while the search was carried out. A rest centre was set up at Llanelli Leisure Centre to support those affected by the disruption. Police officers contacted residents directly to keep them informed and to provide assistance. Dyfed-Powys Police provided regular updates throughout the evening. In a statement, the force said: "Dyfed-Powys Police is carrying out a warrant at New Dock Road, Llanelli. "A 100m cordon is currently in place for public safety. "EOD (explosive ordinance disposal) is on their way to the scene. "Please follow the direction of officers at the scene for your safety." At 9.50pm, police confirmed that the EOD officers had concluded their searches and the device had been made safe. Residents who had been asked to leave their properties were told they could return home, and all roads were reopened. Chief Inspector Dominic Jones said: "I would like to thank the whole community for their support and patience while we dealt with this incident. "Local people will see more police in the area over the coming days as enquiries continue." Police officers are expected to remain at the location overnight as investigations continue. The public are advised to expect an increased police presence in the area in the coming days. Members of the public were urged to avoid the area during the incident and to stay informed via official police channels. Further updates are expected as enquiries progress. No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. The police investigation is ongoing.
