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Jersey Royal Court considers measure of damages for dilapidations claims

May 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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In the absence of any statutory provision in Jersey addressing how dilapidations claims are to be quantified, the Royal Court's decision in JSSL v Barclays has provided some much needed guidance, particularly in circumstances where there is an acceptance that works to redress dilapidations have not been and will not be carried out.

English Supreme Court rules on Mistake and Hastings Bass

May 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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On 9 May 2013 the English Supreme Court handed down a unanimous judgment on the seminal cases of Pitt-v- Holt and Futter -v- Futter , with Lord Walker's valedictory judgment conclusively resolving the English position on the rule in Hastings Bass and rescission on the ground of mistake.

Protectors - role and duties

May 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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In the Matter of the Representation of C, D, E and F and In the Matter of the A and B Trusts [2012] JRC 169A, in a judgment released at the end of April, the Royal Court of Jersey has provided welcome guidance as to the scope of the duties of a trust protector and the circumstances under which they may be removed by the court.

Funds Quarterly Legal and Regulatory Update

April 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Period covered: 31 December 2012 to 31 March 2013

Employees on sick leave entitled to carry over annual leave

April 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Ogier has taken a test case to the Employment Tribunal to clarify the law on annual leave entitlement for employees on long term sick leave. 

In a judgment released earlier this month the Tribunal held that staff who are unable to take statutory annual leave due to serious ill health are entitled to carry over that leave to the next holiday year. 

Capita Trustees Ltd, RS, NS, The Trustees in Bankruptcy of RS

April 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The case of Capita Trustees Ltd, RS, NS, The Trustees in Bankruptcy of RS - In the matter of the Dunlop Settlement [2013] JRC 029 concerns an application by Capita Trustees Limited (Capita) in its capacity as trustee of the Dunlop Settlement (the Trust) for approval to it entering into an agreement intended to settle various claims made against the Trust by creditors (the Agreement), the net effect of which would be to exhaust the assets of the Trust.

Servicing Non-Jersey Funds in Jersey

March 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing outlines the key features from a regulatory perspective of servicing non-Jersey funds in Jersey.  

Non-Jersey Fund Offers in Jersey

March 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing outlines the requirements under Jersey law and JFSC policy for offer documents of non-Jersey funds which are to be circulated in Jersey.

Jersey Fund Offers

March 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing outlines the requirements under Jersey law and JFSC policy for offer documents of Jersey funds.

A Guide to Buying a Flying Freehold Apartment in Jersey

March 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The "Loi (1991) sur la copropriété des immeubles bâtis", also known as the "Flying Freehold Law" (the "Law"), was enacted to enable units (usually apartments) within buildings to be sold on a freehold basis instead of by share transfer. We will assume for the purpose of this briefing that we are dealing with an apartment.

A Guide to Buying a Share Transfer Apartment in Jersey

March 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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1.1 Introduction

Buying an apartment by “share transfer” is very different to a freehold purchase and involves buying a block of shares in a company which give rights of occupation to an apartment. As there is no need to attend the Royal Court completion can take place on any day.

AIFMD and the Channel Islands The Private Placement Regime - Obligations and Opportunities

February 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (the "Directive") must be implemented by EU Member States by 22 July 2013.

In the matter of the B Life Interest Settlement [2012] JRC 229

February 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Facts - This was an application by a Trustee asking the Royal Court to exercise its powers to set aside a Deed of Amendment, a Deed of Exclusion and a Deed of Appointment by reason of mistake and/or seeking relief under the Hastings Bass principle. Thiswas in effect the first opportunity the Court in Jersey had had to consider the Hastings Bass remedy since the Court of Appeal in England's decision in Pitt v Holt and Futter v Futter. The Bailiff had directed that in the instant case an amicus be appointedto argue before the Royal Court on the Hastings Bass issue.

HHH Employee Trust - Settlor awarded its costs on the trustee indemnity basis

February 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Jersey's Royal Court has delivered a landmark decision on the ability of non-trustee fiduciaries to recover costs that they have incurred in connection with the discharge of their fiduciary functions. In the HHH Employee Trust1, the Court found that the costs of administrative proceedings incurred by a settlor with reserved fiduciary powers were recoverable out of the trust fund on the "trustee indemnity" basis.

Costs in trust applications: Jersey's Court of Appeal provides helpful guidance

February 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction

In Trilogy Management -v- YT & Others [2012] JCA 204 Jersey's Court of Appeal has clarified the principles relating to the payment of costs in non-adversarial trust applications. In doing so, it has drawn together approaches established in a number of early cases, and consolidated the position in an area which it said had received only "sporadic consideration" previously. This case is of importance for all trustees who may be contemplating applications to the Court in these circumstances, for example the construction of a trust instrument or the correct administration of a trust. The case differentiates between the costs of trustees and beneficiaries/other convened parties, and also between costs at first instance and costs on appeal.

Jersey Limited Liability Partnerships

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction

Legislation has recently been passed by the States of Jersey to amend the Limited Liability Partnerships (Jersey) Law 1997 (the Law). A Jersey Limited LiabilityPartnership (LLP) is a legal person distinct from its partners which can own property, sue and be sued in its own name. Each of its partners is obliged to contribute effort and skill to the business of the LLP as agents of the partnership but not of each other.

Creating a Permanent Establishment in Jersey

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The current trend 

There is an increasing need for businesses to ensure that they can demonstrate proper substance in the jurisdictions in which they operate.  Many cross border financing, asset holding or investment structures are coming under scrutiny by various tax or regulatory authorities around the world and Jersey is ideally placed to provide proper substance and a permanent establishment in a tax neutral environment.

Funds Quarterly Legal and Regulatory Update

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Period covered: 30 September 2012 to 31 December 2012

Lessons to be learned from EVIC v Greater Europe

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction

A recent judgment of Jersey's Royal Court will be of interest to directors and managers of closed ended funds.
The Jersey courts, in line with other common law jurisdictions, have a wide discretion to order a just and equitable winding up pursuant to the Companies Law. Perhaps of most relevance to investment funds is the ordering of a just & equitable winding up on the basis that the company has lost its substratum.

The traditional basis for a loss of substratum is that where it is impossible for a company to carry on the business for which it was established, then it must be wound up, even if the directors or a majority of the shareholders wish the company to continue in business. For these purposes the identification of the business for which the company was established has traditionally included the sector of commerce and also particular features of the manner in which the business was to be carried on.  However, the focus in EVIC v Greater Europe was on the closed-ended nature of the

Jersey and Guernsey Alternative Investment Funds - AIFMD Update

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction

After a significant period of negotiation, the level 2 regulations pursuant to the AIFM Directive (the Directive) were issued by the EU Commission on 19 December. The controversial areas of negotiation between EU member states are understood to have been focused particularly on the areas of delegation and depositary requirements.

Royal Court rules on loss of substratum in a Jersey fund

January 2013 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Royal Court has ordered the winding up of a Jersey closed end fund on just and equitable grounds on the basis of a loss of the fund's substratum. The Court first delivered judgment in August in the case, EVIC v Greater Europe Deep Value Fund II Limited, and following a further hearing last month ordered the winding up of the fund. A further reasoned judgment will follow.

Jersey: Listed Funds

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing gives a summary of the key features of a listed fund.

Jersey: Public Funds

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing gives a summary of the key features of a publicly-offered collective investment fund which is not an expert fund, recognized fund, listed fund or unregulated fund.

Jersey: Unregulated Funds

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing gives a summary of the key features of an unregulated fund.

Tracing a new path - The Federal Republic of Brazil & Anor v Durant International Corporation & Ors

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Jersey's Royal Court has delivered a landmark judgment1, eschewing long established principles of common law concerning the circumstances in which proprietary claims may be established and when assets may be traced. In a clear statement of Jersey's jurisprudential independence, the Court found that legal interests are subject to equitable tracing rules, that funds may be traced through "black holes" and into mixed bank accounts, that "backwards tracing" is permissible and that the "lowest intermediate balance" principle does not apply in Jersey.

Jersey: Expert Funds

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing gives a summary of the key features of an expert fund.

An introduction to Jersey investment funds

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Jersey offers a full spectrum of fund regulation, from highly regulated recognized funds which may be marketed widely to the general public to unregulated funds which fulfil certain criteria and therefore may opt out of regulation as a fund in Jersey. This briefing is a general introduction to the range of Jersey investment funds available. 

The Glasgow Rangers Tax Case

December 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Background

The Appellants, Murray Group Holdings (MGH), are a large holding company with diverse interests in over 100 companies including, until May 2011, Glasgow Rangers Football Club.  Given Rangers' involvement and their subsequent administration, this case has been widely publicised and has become known as the Rangers tax case.

Jersey CFC Financing Structures

November 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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From 1 January 2013 the UK will replace its existing controlled foreign company (CFC) rules with a more limited regime which is intended to improve the UK's international competitiveness as the best location for corporate headquarters in Europe.

On the right terms - Shah v HSBC is a timely reminder to check standard terms and conditions

November 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The recent English High Court decision in Shah v HSBC Private Bank [2012] highlights again the need for banks and trust companies to be aware when they may refuse to transfer cash or assets where there is a suspicion of money laundering. While in this case the High Court implied a term into the bank's terms so that it could refuse to process payments in these circumstances, the Jersey court may not take a similar approach. There is also a possibility of criminal liability if any holder of client money or assets (the financial institution) has no choice but to make a transfer of tainted funds.

Registration under the Security Interests (Jersey) Law 2012

November 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Security Interests (Jersey) Law 1983 (the 1983 Law) will soon be replaced by the Security Interests (Jersey) Law 2012 (the New Law), which was passed by the States of Jersey on 19 July 2011.  The New Law is expected to come into force in early 2013.

In our related briefing Advantages of the New Security Interests (Jersey) Law, the concept of registration which is to be introduced by the New Law is highlighted as a potential advantage to lenders. Registration is one of the various enhancements which will contribute to the modernisation of Jersey's intangible movable security regime.

Close-out netting and set-off provisions for BVI, Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey counterparties

November 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction

Ogier is counsel to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. ("ISDA") in Guernsey and Jersey and provides netting and collateral opinions which are available to members from ISDA's website and updated on an annual basis. We are often asked to advise on the enforceability of close-out netting and set-off provisions under ISDA and other standard form agreements (including prime brokerage agreements) against counterparties incorporated or registered in the BVI, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey or Jersey. This involves an analysis of the extent to which local laws recognise the enforceability of such provisions in pre- and post-insolvency circumstances. The relevant legislation from each jurisdiction is summarised in general terms below. Upon request, we are able to provide opinions in respect of specific counterparties/types of counterparties and agreements.

New Prospectus Order

October 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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A new prospectus order for Jersey certified funds comes into force on 17 November 2012: the Collective Investment Funds (Certified Funds - Prospectuses) (Jersey) Order 2012 (the "Prospectus Order").

Laws and Orders brought into force in 2012

September 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Banking Business (General Provisions) (Amendment No. 3) (Jersey) Order 2011 came into force on 25 January 2012. The Order amends the Banking Business (General Provisions) (Jersey) Order 2002 in relation to deposit taking.

Equity to the rescue

September 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Lisa Springate and Tim Wright on the Shinorvic Trust case and the application of an english principle in Jersey: Equity aids the defective execution of a power.

Jersey cash box and convertible bond transactions

August 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Collas Crill.

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The use of cash box structures is becoming increasingly popular as means of facilitating equity or bond issues.

This note summarises the ways in which a UK public company listed on the London Stock Exchange or AIM may raise money using a Jersey company ‘cash box’ company, either by a placing of its shares or through the use of a convertible bond.

Draft Laws and Orders

July 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The draft Collective Investment Funds (Amendment and Validation) (Jersey) Law 201- has been adopted by the States of Jersey and is awaiting the approval of the Privy Council. The draft Law will amend the Collective Investment Funds (Jersey) Law 1988 with regard to the publication and validation of fees.

The Certified Funds Prospectuses Order

July 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Prospectus Content Requirements - Jersey Investment Funds

Existing statutory prospectus content requirements for Jersey investment funds which fall within the definition of certified funds will soon be replaced by a new prospectuses order, the Collective Investment Funds (Certified Funds - Prospectuses) (Jersey) Order 2012 (the CFPO or the Order). 

Jersey Certified Fund Prospectuses Order

July 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The Collective Investment Funds (Certified Funds – Prospectuses) Order 2012 (the "CFPO") was made on 17 May 2012. The CFPO amends the regulation of Certified Fund prospectuses. Once it comes into force on 17 November 2012, then subject to transitional arrangements, all prospectuses for Certified Funds must comply with the content requirements of the CFPO irrespective of the type of fund vehicle that is used or whether the fund is open-ended or closed-ended.

Fund Services: Onshore and offshore administration

June 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The current trend is for firms to provide both an offshore and onshore administrative solution for funds. Why is this happening, what does it mean for the asset managers and the relationship with administrators?

Bedell Fund Services Update - June 2012

June 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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  • Bedell Fund Services (BFS) are pleased to announce that assets under administration has grown by over 30% according to the latest 2011/2012 Lipper Jersey Fund Encyclopaedia...
  • As clients’ wants and needs continue to evolve against a backdrop of challenging regulatory developments, BFS has implemented specialist administration software to deliver sustained value to clients...

Luxembourg Hedge Funds Executive Summary

June 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This executive summary provides a comparative overview only of the two principal Luxembourg fund vehicles used by asset managers pursuing hedge funds strategies. For further detail, please also refer to the full form client briefing “Luxembourg - Complex alternative UCITS & Specialised Investment Funds” which may be accessed via the Luxembourg section of www.ogier.com.

Luxembourg Complex alternative UCITS & Specialised Investment Funds

June 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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A founder member of the European Union benefiting fully from free movement of capital and freedom of establishment within the EU, Luxembourg is also one of the largest global financial centres, benefiting from flexible and attractive legal, regulatory and tax regimes and a significant concentration of professional service providers to the financial services industry.

The use of Jersey Special Purpose Vehicles in Structured Finance Transactions

June 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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As a politically stable and fiscally advantageous financial centre, Jersey is a prime jurisdiction in which to incorporate a special purpose vehicle ("SPV") as the issuer of debt securities.

Cracking the codes

May 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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NEW codes of practice for certified funds (the ‘Codes’) were introduced by the Jersey Financial Services Commission on 2 April 2012 (the ‘Effective Date’).

MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL GUIDE 2012 FINANCE

May 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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New Security Interests (Jersey) Law: changes to Jersey law and market practice.

Matthew Swan and Bruce MacNeil - Ogier

An overview of Jersey Funds

May 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Please see table through below link.

Private Equity 2012 Fund Formation Jersey Chapter

April 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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What legal form of vehicle is typically used for private equity funds formed in your jurisdiction?

Securities and investment business regulations in the British Virgin Islands

April 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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It has been almost two years since the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 (‘SIBA’) in the British Virgin Islands (‘BVI’) was established – coming into eff ect on May 17th 2010.

Codes of Practice for Certified Funds

March 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Jersey funds industry is anticipating the launch of new codes of practice for certified funds (the "Codes") by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the "JFSC") on 2 April 2012 (the "Effective Date").

MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL GUIDE 2012 FINANCE

March 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Jersey
Robert Milner, Robin Smith, Simon Marks and Alan Stevens - Carey Olsen

Jersey Private Placement Funds Investment Funds | January 2012 Next generation structuring

March 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Private Placement Fund (PPF) is a new type of regulated investment fund vehicle available in Jersey which has been specifically designed for the professional and institutional investor market.

MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL GUIDE 2012 INVESTMENT FUNDS

February 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Jersey
James Mulholland, Robert Milner and Daniel O’Connor - Carey Olsen

RETAIL FUNDS 1. What is the structure of the retail funds market? What have been the main trends over the last year? 

Jersey opens doors to Private Placement Funds

February 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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The Jersey Financial Services Commission has adopted a new policy
setting out a fast track, self-certification procedure for authorising a "Private
Placement Fund", being a fund:
• which is either established in Jersey or managed in Jersey
• which is closed ended
• whose units are offered to not more than fifty investors
• which only admits "sophisticated investors" or professional investors"
(see appendix)

Jersey Private Placement Funds

January 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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From January 2012 a new streamlined regulatory authorisation process for the establishment of privately placed funds is available in Jersey.

The new private placement fund ("PPF") regime will add welcome speed and certainty to the regulation of Closed-ended Funds established or managed in Jersey, providing a cost-effective and non-intrusive regulatory environment for funds making offers to 50 or fewer professional or sophisticated investors worldwide. 

Establishing and Operating a Cayman Investment Fund

January 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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A. INVESTMENT FUNDS
1. Documents
1.1 Generally, the documents involved in the establishment of an investment fund in the Cayman Islands include the following:

Regulation of Cayman Islands Master Funds: a new regime

January 2012 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The Mutual Funds (Amendment) Law, 2011 came in to effect on 22 December 2011 and provides for the regulation by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority ("CIMA") of Cayman Islands master funds in fund structures which include a CIMA regulated feeder fund.

Codes of Practice for Certified Funds

December 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Many Jersey investment funds will be required to comply with new codes of practice from early 2012. The codes' purpose is to establish sound principles and to provide practical guidance in respect of the conduct of business by, and operation of, many types of Jersey funds.

Trust Restructuring In The Cayman Islands

November 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing was published in the Cayman Financial Review, Fourth Quarter 2011.

A trustee is duty bound to act strictly in accordance with the terms of the trust and within the parameters of the powers that it is granted. A trust instrument may provide a trustee with the power to adapt a trust structure to changing circumstances, thus ensuring that it does not fall out of step with convention, with beneficiaries' circumstances or with changes in the law but sometimes it does not.

The FIS and Suspicion: the Court of Appeal View

November 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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In a judgment handed down this summer the Guernsey Court of Appeal has, in the case of Garnet Investments Limited v the Chief Officer of Customs and Excise, overturned the judgment of the Royal Court which quashed the decision of the Financial Intelligence Service (the "FIS") by which the FIS refused to grant consent to a Guernsey bank to transfer funds held by Garnet with the bank.

Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACS)

November 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Following the recovery from the recent financial crisis, there has once again been a growing interest in special purpose acquisition vehicles (SPACs) and offshore jurisdictions such as Jersey, Guernsey, Cayman and the British Virgin Islands are increasingly being used for both the creation and ongoing business structure of such vehicles. These jurisdictions have proven to be ideal for this type of funding structure due to their flexibility and tax efficiency.

Update on AIFM Directive

October 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Impact Analysis for Jersey and Guernsey Investment Funds

After a protracted period of negotiation, the AIFM Directive was finally approved by the European Parliament on 11 November 2010.
The Directive is expected to be brought into force shortly and will regulate the activities of managers of alternative investment funds (“AIF Managers”) as follows:

The evolution of the Guernsey Funds Industry

October 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Guernsey’s funds industry goes back over 30 years when the first retail unit trusts were established. At that time, Jersey had already established a firm foothold with these retail products. Lacking first mover advantage encouraged Guernsey to find alternative source of revenues from the funds sector and thus the Island opened its arms to alternative product types that weren’t necessarily acceptable in Jersey. From the late 1980’s onwards, Guernsey began to attract the then smaller closed ended fund market and many smaller management firms and start-up funds.

Security Reviews and Refinancings involving Offshore Entities

October 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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It has been estimated that there is European bank and bond debt with a combined value of up to €50-75 billion which is due to mature and come to market for refinancing over the next five years (Refinancing 2011: The Scramble to Refinance European Debt, Debtwire, March 2011). Many lenders are currently in the process of reviewing their loan books in advance of potential refinancings / restrucurings and obtaining security reviews analysing their position under existing structures.

Finance in Jersey: Back to the Future

September 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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When we look back over the last half century we can also learn about the time yet to come, says Anthony Dessain, Senior Partner

Current developments in Cayman’s legal and regulatory environment

September 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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In this issue:
Cayman Court Examines Responsibilities
of Fund Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P2-7

UK Operator Services

September 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Ogier Corporate Administration Limited (“OCAL”) is authorised by the UK Financial Services Authority (the “FSA”) to act as an ‘Operator’ to UK unregulated collective investment schemes (“UCISs”)

Structuring Considerations for Hedge Funds

September 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Most open ended funds in Asia are structured using a Cayman Islands company as the fund vehicle. The principal documents governing the contractual relationships between the investor and the fund are the offering memorandum, the subscription agreement and the memorandum and articles of association of the fund.

Incorporating a Jersey Company

September 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Jersey is a popular jurisdiction in which to incorporate companies for use on a wide range of transactions, including investment funds, private equity, structured finance and securitisation transactions as well as listings on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange.

Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (“SPACs”)

August 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Offshore jurisdictions such as the BVI, Cayman, Guernsey and Jersey are frequently chosen as the jurisdiction of domicile for SPACs.

Structured finance and securitisation transactions with a Jersey element

August 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Basics of a Jersey company
• Governed by Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, as amended ("CJL")
• Full capacity without long form memorandum
• Company can have:
- par value shares
- no par value shares
- shares denominated in any currency
- guarantee members
- unlimited members

Whispering Words of Wisdom - Section 322 of the Companies Law

August 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Whilst the Beatles may have been content to "let it be", it is hoped that this article will highlight and prompt consideration of a little known provision in the Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) ("the Law") that may have significant consequences for shareholders and investment companies alike.

Jersey Cell Companies

August 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Jersey introduced Cell Companies into its law in February 2006 Protected cell companies (PCCs) were first developed in Guernsey in the late 1990s. Originally to attract captive insurance work to Guernsey, they proved popular and versatile, and were soon found to be a useful vehicle in collective investment fund structures.

Changes in the regulation of outsourcing and delegation in Jersey

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Registered persons that wish to outsource and delegate any part of their regulated functions must comply with policy and guidance issued by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. That policy and guidance was revised in May 2011 in order, in particular, to distinguish between outsourcing and delegation in a funds context and by functionaries of funds.

Jersey Cash Box Structures

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Following a period of turmoil in the financial markets, issuers have been viewing cash box structures as an attractive financing tool to facilitate share and convertible bond issues and to allow access to alternative sources of funding.

Registered closed-ended investment funds

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The establishment of, and raising of money by, closed-ended funds in Guernsey requires the consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission (the "Commission") pursuant to the provisions of the Control of Borrowing (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Ordinance, 1959 to 1989, as amended ("COBO").

Investment funds in Guernsey

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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This briefing provides a concise outline of the regulation of investment funds in Guernsey and an overview of the structures available in Guernsey and their tax treatment.

Guernsey as an Alternative Offshore Hedge Fund Jurisdiction

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Guernsey is a 'European' offshore jurisdiction with a flexible regulatory regime which lends itself to the establishment of hedge funds.

The liquidation of hedge funds: an Achilles heel?

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A version of this briefing appeared on www.hedgeweek.com on 1 March 2011.

Most hedge funds do not give active consideration as to how they are to be liquidated in their constitutional documentation. Unfortunately this can have serious consequences for the fund. 

Adapt to survive: the Cayman Islands in 2011

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A version of this briefing appeared in The Lawyer Offshore Report on 2 May 2011.

From initially being seen as a threat, the ever-flexible Cayman is tackling the new regulatory environment head-on, says Robert Duggan.

Recent revisions to the Cayman Islands Companies Law

July 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Certain technical enhancements have recently been made to the Companies Law of the Cayman Islands by virtue of the Companies (Amendment) Law, 2011. Key changes are referenced below.

Private Equity Fund Structuring Considerations

June 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Historically, the most common structure used for private equity funds structured in the Cayman Islands was an exempted limited partnership. However, we have seen a shift recently towards structuring private equity funds as exempted companies.

The AIFM Directive Blueprint

May 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A version of this briefing appeared in HFM Week Special Report, Cayman 2011, in April 2011.

Soft wind-downs of Cayman funds

May 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A version of this briefing appeared in Cayman Funds 2011, published by Newton Media, April 2011.
It's a sad reflection on the recent state of the hedge fund industry that the term 'soft wind-down' has become one of the most frequently used in the last three years. Simon Palmer takes a look.

Private Equity - Listing Debt on the CISX

April 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Channel Islands Stock Exchange (CISX) has seen a
dramatic increase in the listing of quoted Eurobonds.
Many of these Eurobonds have been issued in
connection with private equity transactions. Typically the
debt issuing entity will be a UK tax resident company
formed in connection with a private equity funded
acquisition.

A guide to Investment funds in Jersey

April 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The investment funds industry in Jersey has achieved significant growth in recent years. Statistics show that as at 30 September 2010 there were £179 billion of assets under management in Jersey. The Island has developed into a leading jurisdiction for the establishment of investment funds and a large number of Jersey funds are listed on the London and other stock exchanges. Jersey and Guernsey established the Channel Islands Stock Exchange where special procedures exist to facilitate the listing of Jersey and Guernsey investment funds. (Please visit www.cisx.com for further information).

Listing Debt Securities on the Channel Islands Stock Exchange: Points to Consider

April 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Channel Islands Stock Exchange (CISX) offers a streamlined and highly responsive listing process for a wide range of securities and Issuers. Part of the CISX's growth has been driven by the withholding tax advantages (the "quoted Eurobond" exemption from the requirements to withhold for UK tax) obtained by listing certain types of debt securities on its Official List. This has been particularly attractive for UK and Irish corporates and the private equity industry. For additional information about listing on the CISX, please refer to our client Briefings Listing on the Channel Islands Stock Exchange and Listing Debt Securities on the Channel Islands Stock Exchange.

Record Management within the Financial Services Sector

April 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Data Protection (Jersey) Law 2005 (the "Law") came into force on 1 December 2005. It sets out rules for the processing of personal data. Additional data protection provisions are set out in subordinate legislation. Broadly speaking, the processing of personal data includes obtaining, disclosing, recording, holding, using, erasing or destroying personal data. It applies to many paper records as well as those held on computer. The Law, therefore, has a significant impact on the way in which businesses manage their records.

Insolvency procedures in respect of Jersey companies

April 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The credit crunch has put pressure on a wide range of structures and, as a result, lenders, borrowers and other counterparties are looking more closely at the impact of possible insolvency proceedings. As Jersey companies have often been used in cross-border finance transactions, it is important to be aware of the differences between Jersey and English insolvency procedures for companies.

In the matter of the representation of AA—trust jurisdiction clauses in Jersey trusts

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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The Royal Court of Jersey recently held that Guernsey was the most appropriate forum for the resolution of certain issues in relation to a Jersey law Trust. This decision raises interesting questions in relation to trust jurisdiction clauses in Jersey trusts and Article 9 of the Trusts (Jersey) Law 1984 (as amended). This article examines this case and the implications.

Cayman Islands Star Trusts

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The Special Trusts Alternative Regime or "STAR" is a creature of statute. It was introduced in the Cayman Islands by the STAR Law in 1997 but since then, has been incorporated in Part VIII of the Cayman Islands Trusts Law, appearing in the 2009 Revision at sections 95 to 109.

The new legislation on 'Disguised Remuneration' and what it means for offshore trustees

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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On 9 December 2010, the UK Government released new draft legislation aimed at tackling arrangements involving trusts and other vehicles to avoid, reduce or defer liabilities to income tax on rewards of an employment or to avoid restrictions on pensions tax relief.

Offshore Trusts

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Introduction This briefing is intended to provide a general overview of some of the factors to be considered by clients and their advisers in the establishment of a trust in BVI, Cayman, Guernsey, Jersey or New Zealand.

Representation of R M Talbot Estate

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Representation of R M Talbot Estate - application by a trustee to vary a will of Jersey situate personal estate

Guernsey is the top jurisdiction for LSE listings

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Guernsey is once again the market leader for the number of companies listed on the markets of the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

Redemption for Cayman Islands' hedge funds

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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On 13 December 2010 the Privy Council overturned the decision of the Cayman Islands Court of Appeal (the "CICA") in Culross Global SPC Limited v Strategic Turnaround Master Partnership Ltd [2010] UKPC 33.

The liquidation of hedge funds: an Achilles heel?

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Most hedge funds do not give active consideration as to how they are to be liquidated in their constitutional documentation. Unfortunately this can have serious consequences for the fund.

Directors' concerns: Unfair prejudice and rights issues

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Directors are responsible for managing the business of their company and amongst the difficult problems that directors face in doing so is finding a path between diverse and sometimes conflicting interests that affect the company and the people interested in it.

Directors' concerns: Facing insolvency and wrongful trading

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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During the lifetime of a company some of the most difficult problems that a director faces are encountered if the company is in financial difficulty: not yet unable to pay its bills and insolvent but with a possibility that it may get to that position. At that stage the decisions made by a director may affect not only the survival and future of the company but also the director's own position.

An overview of Insolvency and Restructuring in Jersey

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A version of this briefing features in "Getting the Deal Through - Insolvency and Restructuring 2010" published by Law Business Research.

Turning around Strategic Turnaround:

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Turning around Strategic Turnaround: Privy Council reverses decision of Cayman Islands Court of Appeal

Tipping off

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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A recent, and largely unheralded, change to the tipping off provisions is set to have a significant impact on financial services businesses in Guernsey.

Jersey: A Full Spectrum of Fund Regulation

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Jersey has long enjoyed an excellent reputation as a jurisdiction in which to establish an investment fund. For Chinese fund promoters wanting to establish a fund and for Chinese investors investing in a fund, Jersey offers many advantages.

An overview of the new Security Interests (Jersey) Law

March 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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Taking security over shares, bank accounts, rights under contracts and other types of intangible property in Jersey is governed by the Security Interests (Jersey) Law 1983 (the 1983 Law). The 1983 Law is set to be replaced in late 2011 or in early 2012 by the Security Interests (Jersey) Law 201- (the new Law). The new Law provides Jersey with a modern, efficient regime for the creation and enforcement of security interests in intangible property.

The Residence of a Trust after Garron and Smallwood

February 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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The established view has long been that a trust is resident in the jurisdiction where the trustee is resident. This briefing note discusses recent international developments in the form of two recent cases, one in Canada and one in the UK, which have introduced concepts that we are more used to in the context of the determination of corporate residence.

France and Jersey Tax Agreement

February 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Exemption from French 3% Real Estate Tax

Listing a BVI Company on London’s Alternative Investment market

February 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This briefing is intended to provide a summary of some of the legal requirements and considerations applicable to the use of an offshore company for listing on the Alternative Investment Market (“AIM”). It is not, however, intended to be comprehensive in its scope and it is recommended that a client seeks legal advice on any proposed transaction prior to taking steps to implement it.

Incorporating Joint Venture Companies in the British Virgin Islands

February 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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When setting up a joint venture involving parties from different countries, the international angle makes the choice of jurisdiction for the incorporation of the joint venture company (“JVC”) a crucial one.

Making a Will in Jersey for Jersey Domiciled Individuals

February 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing provides answers to some of the key questions which you may have regarding the need for you to make a will. It should be noted that this Briefing only applies to individuals who are domiciled in Jersey.

Enforcement of Jersey Security Agreements

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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As the credit crunch continues to impact on the global economy and banking covenants come under greater pressure, lenders are increasingly examining the detail of their security packages in order to identify the various enforcement options open to them.

Statutory Netting, Contractual Subordination and Non-Petition Provisions under Jersey Law

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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As financing transactions have become more sophisticated over the last decade, it has been common for parties to a transaction to agree in advance matters relating to:

Private Client Handbook 2010/11

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Country Q&A

Investment Funds Handbook 2011

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Country Q&A

Channel Island Stock Exchange - Debt Listing

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Channel Islands Stock Exchange, LBG (‘CISX’ or the ‘Exchange’) offers:

Channel Island Stock Exchange - Continuing Obligations for Issuer’s with listed Debt Securities

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This Client Briefing has been prepared for the assistance of directors of companies listing “debt securities” as defined in Chapter 1 of the listing rules (the Listing Rules) of the Channel Islands Stock Exchange (the Exchange) under Chapter VIII of the Listing Rules.

BVI Public Funds Code 2010

January 2011 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The FSC releases the Public Funds Code to supplement SIBA and the Mutual Funds Regulations.

Wealthbriefing - Knowing or Unknowing Receipt

December 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Sinels .

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In the recent case of Bagus Investments v. Kastening , the Royal Court of Jersey signalled that the English claim of ‘knowing receipt’ might be known in Jersey law.

Channel Island Stock Exchange - Continuing Obligations for Issuer’s with listed Debt Securities

December 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This Client Briefing has been prepared for the assistance of directors of companies listing “debt securities” as defined in Chapter 1 of the listing rules (the Listing Rules) of the Channel Islands Stock Exchange (the Exchange) under Chapter VIII of the Listing Rules.

Channel Island Stock Exchange - Debt Listing

December 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Channel Islands Stock Exchange, LBG (‘CISX’ or the ‘Exchange’) offers:

Foundations: Key Features and Principal Uses

December 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Foundations (Jersey) Law 2009 (the "Law") came into force on 17 July 2009, allowing for the incorporation of foundations in Jersey.

The Securities Investment Business Law

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The Securities Investment Business Law (2004 Revision) (the "Law") provides for the licensing and control of "securities investment business" (as defined below) carried on in, or from, the Cayman Islands. Under the Law, a person shall not carry on or purport to carry on securities investment business unless such person holds a licence granted under the Law or is exempt from holding a licence.

Cayman Islands Hedge Funds: Power to suspend redemptions and payment of redemption moneys

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Mourant Ozannes.

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The Cayman Islands' Court of Appeal recently heard an appeal on the ability of a fund to suspend redemptions and the payment of redemption moneys.

Investment Funds in Bahrain and Offshore

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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There are many options available to promoters as to which domicile to choose for their fund and different factors, such as the preferences of seed investors or regulatory requirements may be important. This briefing highlights some of the different investment fund products available in Bahrain, the British Virgin Islands (‘BVI’), the Cayman Islands (‘Cayman’), Guernsey and Jersey and provides some background on each of those jurisdictions.

Structuring an AIM or LSE IPO using a Jersey or Guernsey Vehicle

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing covers the practical issues that are likely to be considered by UK advisers when structuring an AIM or LSE IPO using a Jersey or Guernsey based vehicle ("FloatCo").

Update on AIFM Directive

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Impact Analysis for Jersey and Guernsey Investment Fund

Fairfield Funds: Update

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Liquidators were appointed over Fairfield Sentry Limited, Fairfield Sigma Limited and Fairfield Lambda Limited (together “the Funds”) by orders of the BVI High Court dated 21 July 2009, 21 July 2009 and 23 April 2009 respectively.

Rectification of a Jersey trust preferred to setting it aside for mistake

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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In the Matter of DD [2010] JRC 193, 21 October 2010 Commissioner Clyde-Smith, and Jurats Le Breton and Morgan This case concerned an application by the Settlor and New Trustee ("DD") to the Royal Court, for rectification of the trust deed and an associated declaration of trust or in the alternative that the trust be set aside on the basis of mistake.

Wills for Jersey residents

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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What is a Will? A Will is a legal document in which you set out how you would like your estate to be dealt with after your death. It contains the names of the individuals or institutions whom you want to receive your assets.

Trusts and Fiduciary Group

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Court declines to order disclosure to beneficiaries correspondence between other beneficiaries and trustee

The New Security Interests (Jersey)

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The creation of security over intangible movables under Jersey law is currently governed by the Security Interests (Jersey) Law 1983. After a period of consultation, the new Security Interests (Jersey) Law is in a close-to-final form. The new Law will add certainty and flexibility at a time when economic conditions have led to a greater focus on protection of collateral.

Mischca Trust & Butterfield Trust (Guernsey) v Thommessen et al.

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This case concerned five applications involving the Mischca Trust. The first application (the “Butterfield Application”) was made by the trustee of the Mischca Trust to request confirmation from the Court that the setting up of the International Fund for Arts and Sciences (‘IFAS’) charitable trust by them was lawful.

Trusts and Fiduciary Group

November 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Court declines to order disclosure to beneficiaries correspondence between other beneficiaries and trustee

Dominion Corporate Trustees Limited & Dominion Trust Limited v Capmark Bank Europe PLC

October 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The claimants are the joint trustees (the “Trustees”) of a Jersey property unit trust (the “Trust”), formed as a vehicle for holding real property in the United Kingdom (the “Property”).

Jersey Court Upholds Bank’s Security Under Security Interest Agreement

October 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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In the recent case of Mirpuri vs Bank of India ([2010] JRC 129), the Royal Court of Jersey was asked to consider what powers a secured party could exercise to protect its security. In addition, the court made a number of comments on variation of contract, estoppel and mitigation of loss.

Mischca Trust & Butterfield Trust (Guernsey) v Thommessen et al.

October 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This case concerned five applications involving theMischca Trust. The first application (the “ButterfieldApplication”) was made by the trustee of the MischcaTrust to request confirmation from the Court that thesetting up of the International Fund for Arts and Sciences(‘IFAS’) charitable trust by them was lawful.  

Finance Industry Review 2010

October 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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An eye onsecurity 

Listing Specialist Securities on the Channel Islands Stock Exchange

September 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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The Channel Islands Stock Exchange (CISX) began operations in October 1998. It is based in St Peter Port, Guernsey and provides a listing facility and screen-based trading. It is within an OECD jurisdiction and in the European time zone. The CISX’s mission is to be the premier offshore stock exchange in the European time zone and the exchange of choice for the listing of investment funds, debt instruments and the shares of companies.

In the Matter of the Ta-Ming Wang Trust, 12 April 2010 (Unreported)

August 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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In this recent case, the Grand Court held that the Hastings Bass principle applied, not just to the actions and decisions of a trustee, but also to the actions and decisions of directors of a company owned by the Ta- Ming Wang Trust (the “Trust”), in declaring dividends, at the instance of the trustee in favour of the trustee; but that, on the available evidence, the decision of the directors could not be impugned.

In the Matter of the AE Settlement [2010] JRC085

August 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The case concerned an application for directions made by the corporate trustee (the “Trustee”) in relation to the underlying assets of three Jersey trusts: the AE Settlement, the CE Settlement and the IE Settlement (together, the “Trusts”).

Offshore Trusts

August 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This briefing is intended to provide a general overview of some of the factors to be considered by clients and their advisers in the establishment of a trust in BVI, Cayman, Guernsey or Jersey.

When is a Redemption Effective?: Reserve International Liquidity Fund Ltd

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The British Virgin Island’s Commercial Court has recently delivered a decision in Western Union International Limited v Reserve International Liquidity Fund Ltd which addresses the issue of when during the redemption process a redeeming investor becomes a creditor of the fund and is therefore entitled to apply for the appointment of a liquidator.

Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 - Key Considerations for Existing BVI Funds

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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With the enactment of the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 (“SIBA”) in the BVI, which comes into force on 17 May 2010, the Mutual Funds Act, 1996, the statute which has regulated the BVI funds industry for more than a decade will be repealed and replaced by SIBA (of which Part III relates to funds) and its underlying secondary legislation, the Mutual Funds Regulations, 2010 (the “Mutual Funds Regulations”) and the Public Funds Code.

Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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With the enactment of the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 (“SIBA”) in the BVI, which came into force on 17 May 2010, the regulation of the BVI’s financial services industry has undergone a number of significant changes. These changes may affect your BVI entities.

Exchange Traded Commodities (“ETCs”)

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The ETC market is one of the fastest growing investment segments in the Exchange Traded Product market. Jersey remains a popular jurisdiction for the creation of ETC issuance vehicles and this briefing outlines some of the benefits of using Jersey and Ogier to establish ETC structures.

Convertible Bonds - Jersey Cashbox Structures

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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2009 saw the revival of the convertible bond market in Europe and commentators expect continued activity in this market in 2010 as corporates continue to diversify sources of funding away from bank lending coupled with strong investor demand.

COMI: New Developments for Offshore Liquidators

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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National interests play a distinct part in application of the UNCITRAL model law on cross-border insolvency.

Cash Box Transactions - The Use of Jersey Companies

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This briefing document explains how a United Kingdom public limited company (‘PLC’), which is listed on the main list of the London Stock Exchange or on AIM, may use a Jersey company in a ‘cash box’ transaction where PLC is raising money either through a placing of its shares, a rights issue or where a convertible bond is issued.

Offshore Equity Transactions: Implications of Recent Changes to Corporate Tax Law in China

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Chinese State Administration of Taxation (“SAT”) issued Circular [2009] No. 698 (“Circular 698”) on 10 December 2009. Circular 698 addresses various tax issues on equity transfers by non-Chinese tax resident enterprises. It applies retroactively from 1 January 2008 and covers direct and indirect sales by non-Chinese tax resident enterprises of unlisted shares of Chinese tax resident enterprises.

Guernsey Insurance Overview

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Although Guernsey has a distinctive French-Norman legal heritage, its 20th century corporate and commercial laws have largely been based on equivalent UK legislation. Consequently, much of Guernsey's legislation in this area will be familiar to those used to dealing with the UK or other common law systems. Indeed, the decisions of the courts of the United Kingdom, Australia and other Commonwealth countries are frequently relied upon in the Guernsey court

Lochmore Trust

July 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The settlor applied to court to set aside the Lochmore Trust (the “Trust”) on the grounds of the settlor’s mistake, and all beneficiaries of the Trust had confirmed their consent to the application. Tax advice that the settlor received suggested that shares held by Lochmore (as nominees for the settlor) (the “Shares”) ought to be contributed to the Trust for CGT savings, which contribution being made by way of sale with the price outstanding as a loan rather than a gift into the trust, to avoid an IHT charge at 20%, as the settlor was deemed to be domiciled in the UK for IHT purposes.

Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010

June 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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After much anticipation, the British Virgin Islands (“BVI”) enacted the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 on 12 April 2010 (“SIBA”). SIBA, which came into force on 17 May 2010 (with the exception of the provisions relating to public issues of securities), takes into full account current and emerging international standards of regulation as they relate to the regulation and administration of investment funds (including hedge funds) and entities conducting investment or securities business. It represents an extremely important step for the ongoing development and growing sophistication of the financial services sector within the BVI. It also provides a user friendly statute, in tune with the current regulatory environment, which will complement the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 and the Insolvency Act, 2003.

Offshore Equity Transactions: Implications of Recent Changes to Corporate Tax Law in China

June 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Chinese State Administration of Taxation (“SAT”) issued Circular [2009] No. 698 (“Circular 698”) on 10 December 2009. Circular 698 addresses various tax issues on equity transfers by non-Chinese tax resident enterprises. It applies retroactively from 1 January 2008 and covers direct and indirect sales by non-Chinese tax resident enterprises of unlisted shares of Chinese tax resident enterprises.

Administration Orders - Letters of Request to the UK Court

June 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This is the latest decision of the Royal Court in relation to an application by a UK creditor (a bank) for a letter of request to be issued to the English High Court requesting that an administration order be made in respect of a Jersey company.

Jersey is the top offshore financial centre

April 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Jersey is the only offshore centre to place in the top 20 of global finance centres in a leading industry listing.

Guernsey funds record second successive quarter growth

March 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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Figures issued today show that the value of investment funds in Guernsey increased by £2.7bn (1.5%) during the final three months of last year.

The AML/CFT Handbook for Regulated Financial Services Business

February 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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On 23 December 2009 the Jersey Financial Services Commission (“JFSC”) published an additional trust company business section (the “Section”) to its Handbook for the Prevention and Detection of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (the “Handbook”).

Investment Funds Global

January 2010 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Current developments in the global investment funds legal and regulatory environment

Ogier Fiduciary Services – Trustee Services Japan

November 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Ogier Group is the world’s largest offshore law firm with a presence in nine jurisdictions around the world and employing over 800 professional and support staff including more than 220 lawyers and 300 professional administrators.

Jersey Investment Funds

November 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Jersey is one of the premier offshore jurisdictions for the establishment of investment funds and is highly regarded for the quality of its regulatory regime and its legal and service providers. Investment funds contribute significantly to Jersey's finance industry and a variety of innovative products and structures is available to suit all types of investor and promoter. This Briefing provides an outline description of the range of investment funds which can be established in Jersey and the regulatory controls applied to such funds by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the "Commission").

Laws and Orders brought into force in 2009

November 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Collective Investment Funds (Unregulated Funds) (Amendment No. 2) (Jersey) Order 2009 came into force on 23 February 2009. The Order amends the Collective Investment Funds (Unregulated Funds) (Jersey) Order 2008 to specify which London Stock Exchange markets are acceptable markets for an Unregulated Exchange Traded Fund.

Hybrid Structured Funds

October 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Global issuance of collateralised debt obligations and synthetic equivalents in 2007 reached US$269 billion but by the end of 2008 had dropped to US$71 billion (source: Creditflux). Recent market activity suggests that a growing number of investment finance vehicles are being structured not as CDOs issuing rated debt, but as hybrid investment funds. A combination of the various factors summarised below is expected to result in permanent changes to the structure of the investment capital markets.

Jersey Foundations

September 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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The Foundations (Jersey) Law 2009 (the "Law") came into effect on 17 July 2009.

Hedge fund side letters and in specie payments of redemption proceeds

September 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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A recent decision of the British Virgin Islands High Court in SV Special Situations Fund Limited (SV) v Headstart Class F Holdings Limited (Headstart) should be treated by investors and hedge fund managers as a cautionary tale to consider carefully the terms of any side letters.

Latest Developments in the OECD standing of the Cayman Islands & the British Virgin Islands

September 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”) at the G-20 Summit in April this year developed a three-tiered classification for offshore financial centres according to an internationally agreed standard. An offshore financial centre may be classified as ‘white’, ‘grey’ or ‘black’ based on the number of Tax Information Exchange Agreements (“TIEA”s) entered into. A classification of ‘white’, the highest distinction denoting substantially implemented agreed tax standards, requires an offshore financial centre to have entered into a minimum of 12 TIEAs.

The Anti-Money Laundering Regime - A Jersey Overview

September 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is established as a leading international finance centre, with an enviable reputation for stability, integrity, quality of service, professionalism and high standards of regulation. Jersey is, however, exposed to the same risks faced by all financial centres: its reputation may be undermined and its financial services subverted by the activities of money launderers and organised crime generally.

Should costs be borne by the income or capital of the Trusts Fund?

July 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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This English law case was an application by Close Trustees (Switzerland) SA and Close Brothers Trust Company (the “Trustees”) in respect of a trust where the life tenant was entitled to the income. After the life tenant’s death the capital would be held for the benefit of her children. The life tenant was seeking damages and compensation from both the investment management companies and the Trustees and Protector for losses in respect of the performance of investments held in the trust through the Californian Courts. The Trustees sought the approval of the Court for the retention of a proportion of the income which would otherwise be paid out to the life tenant to ensure that funds were available to reimburse the Trustees’ legal costs. The case did not consider whether the Trustees were entitled to be reimbursed for their legal costs as this would depend upon the outcome of the Californian case, but just whether the retention was permissible given the effect that this would have on the life tenant’s income.

Foundations: Key Features and Potential Uses

July 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Foundations (Jersey) Law 2009 (the "Law") will come into force on 17 July 2009, allowing for the incorporation of foundations in Jersey.

The Status of Jersey and Guernsey as International Financial Centres

July 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The inclusion, following the Group of Twenty ("G20") summit in London in April 2009, of the Channel Island financial centres of both Jersey and Guernsey on the "white list" of jurisdictions that have substantially implemented the internationally agreed standard for the exchange of tax information is an acknowledgement that Jersey and Guernsey are cooperative, responsible and well regulated, low tax international financial centres meeting the highest standards of transparency and regulation.

Hastings-Bass in Jersey: Setting Aside Trustee Decisions to Help Beneficiaries

June 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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There have been four recent Jersey cases which have helped to develop and clarify the law applicable to situations where trustees exercise a discretion which is later found to have had adverse and unintended consequences, and where the trustees would have acted differently had they taken relevant factors into account, or had they not taken irrelevant factors into account.

Foundations: Migrating to Jersey

June 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The draft Foundations (Jersey) Law 200- (the "Law") has been approved by the Privy Council and is expected to be brought into force during July 2009. The Law will allow for the establishment of Jersey foundations, thereby adding significantly to the structuring opportunities available to clients selecting Jersey as a jurisdiction for private wealth management purposes.

The Status of Jersey and Guernsey as International Financial Centres

June 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The inclusion, following the Group of Twenty ("G20") summit in London in April 2009, of the Channel Island financial centres of both Jersey and Guernsey on the "white list" of jurisdictions that have substantially implemented the internationally agreed standard for the exchange of tax information is an acknowledgement that Jersey and Guernsey are cooperative, responsible and well regulated, low tax international financial centres meeting the highest standards of transparency and regulation.

The Status of Jersey and Guernsey as International Financial Centres

May 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The inclusion, following the Group of Twenty ("G20") summit in London in April 2000, of the Channel Island financial centres of both Jersey and Guernsey on the "white list" of jurisdictions that have substantially implemented the internationally agreed standard for the exchange of tax information is an acknowledgement that Jersey and Guernsey are cooperative, responsible and well regulated, low tax international financial centres meeting the highest standards of transparency and regulation.

Lloyds TSB Busted for 'Stripping'

April 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Baker & Partners.

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The U.S. Government has asserted jurisdiction over a non U.S. person for the first time and levied the largest ever penalty for violations of U.S. sanctions.

On January 9th 2009 the British Bank Lloyds TSB entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the New York County District Attorney’s office (NYDA) concerning the bank’s admitted non-compliance with the OFAC sanctions regime pertaining to Iran and Sudan.

Potential Uses of the Jersey Foundation

April 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Foundations to be established under the Foundations (Jersey) Law 200[-] (the “Law”) are vehicles for holding assets. They will be incorporated and therefore have separate legal personality. Foundations must be established with one or more objects. With the sole caveat that the objects must be lawful, they can be charitable, non-charitable or a mixture of both. Permissible objects might include, for example, benefiting a particular person or class of persons or carrying out a specific purpose or holding a particular asset.

What is a Foundation?

April 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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Foundations are vehicles for holding assets. The Foundations (Jersey) Law (the “Law”) will now permit Foundations to be created under the law of Jersey.

Islamic Finance in Jersey

March 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Islamic finance sector has flourished in recent years and has grown from being a specialised niche to a multi-billion dollar global mainstream industry. It has proved dynamic and innovative and has provided an increasing range of sophisticated products. It now offers a real alternative to more established financing techniques.

The sector offers products designed to meet the needs of Islamic investors but the appeal of such investments has proved to be significantly wider as investors globally look to invest in products expressly designed to meet the ethical requirements of Shari'a law.

The Migration of Fund Functionaries to the Financial Services (Jersey) Law 1998

March 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Since 2003, the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the "Commission"), has been implementing an initiative to integrate a number of pre-existing regulatory laws into the Financial Services (Jersey) Law 1998 (the "FSJ Law"). By providing a "one-stop shop" for the legislation within which it operates, the Commission hopes that its administrative and communication roles will be simplified and that it will be easier for the finance industry to understand and comply with the legal framework.

Why Fiction is Clouding Fact - A Comparative Review of Jersey’s Efforts to Counter Financial Crime

February 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Baker & Partners.

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An article published in the Observer newspaper on 14 December 2008  contained the utterly misconceived assertion that ‘The financial crisis began with the collapse of the structured investment vehicles, which accountants and lawyers working offshore put together’. The article went on, rather brazenly, to state that ‘transparency and openness’ are ‘virtues that the offshore banking industry hates with a passion’. Those statements are made without reference to any empirical evidence. The article could simply and accurately be regarded as a misguided ramble by someone with little knowledge of his chosen subject, were it not for the fact that it is another example of the misplaced but increasing hostility to offshore financial centres. That hostility has certainly intensified as a result of the global financial crisis. We have seen politicians on both sides of the Atlantic applying pressure; the Stop Tax Haven Abuse Bill in the US Senate and, in the UK, the announcement in the pre budget report of a review of the Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories  are further examples to which the EU’s indirectly discriminatory White list , President Sarkozy’s recent call for a ‘crack down’ on tax havens  and Joseph Stiglitz call for them to be ‘shut down’  can all be added.

Special Purpose Vehicles and Securitisation in Jersey

February 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing relates to the use of Jersey companies as special purpose vehicles ("SPVs") specifically established for the purposes of securitisations and other structured financing transactions.

Jersey Investment Funds

February 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Jersey is one of the premier offshore jurisdictions for the establishment of investment funds and is highly regarded for the quality of its regulatory regime and its legal and service providers. Investment funds contribute significantly to Jersey's finance industry and a variety of innovative products and structures is available to suit all types of investor and promoter. This Briefing provides an outline description of the range of investment funds which can be established in Jersey and the regulatory controls applied to such funds by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the "Commission").

The Duties of Directors Under Jersey Law

February 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The text of this Briefing is limited in its application to Jersey companies. This is a complex area of law not easily summarised into short form. It follows that this Briefing should in no way be regarded as exhaustive.

In accepting any directorship, a director will automatically assume a host of duties and personal obligations arising from specific legislation, common law and generally accepted standards of corporate governance. Drawing these duties and obligations together is not always an easy task, but notwithstanding this, the consequences of failure on individual directors can be severe. Recent high profile cases against individual directors (for example, the claims commenced by Equitable Life in 2005 against fifteen former directors in the sum of £3.7 billion) evidence that the stakes for individual directors have never been higher. It is therefore of paramount importance that individual directors fully appreciate and identify the risks associated with being a director and consider how these risks can best be mitigated.

Distinction between Public and Private Companies in Jersey

February 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing outlines the distinctions between public and private companies in Jersey. The Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, as amended (the "1991 Law") provides for companies incorporated in Jersey to be either public or private. This Briefing reflects the recent changes made in relation to public and private Jersey companies by the Companies (Amendment No. 9) (Jersey) Law 2008, of which the majority of provisions came into force on 27 June 2008 and the remainder on 1 August 2008.

A Guide to Investment Funds in the British Virgin Islands

January 2009 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The success of the final product is dependant on making many decisions. Whether they are; determining the target market, determining what type of investment fund is required, which compliance and regulatory regime will best suit the circumstances, establishing distribution channels, or introducing systems and procedures to support the operation of the fund, Ogier is in a position to assist you from the outset.

A Guide to Investment Funds in the British Virgin Islands

November 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The success of the final product is dependant on making many decisions. Whether they are; determining the target market, determining what type of investment fund is required, which compliance and regulatory regime will best suit the circumstances, establishing distribution channels, or introducing systems and procedures to support the operation of the fund, Ogier is in a position to assist you from the outset.

Making a Will in Jersey for Jersey Domiciled Individuals

November 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing provides answers to some of the key questions which you may have regarding the need for you to make a will. It should be noted that this Briefing only applies to individuals who are domiciled in Jersey.

Islamic Finance in Jersey

November 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Islamic finance sector has flourished in recent years and has grown from being a specialised niche to a multi-billion dollar global mainstream industry. It has proved dynamic and innovative and has provided an increasing range of sophisticated products. It now offers a real alternative to more established financing techniques.

Jersey Unregulated Funds

November 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Funds established in Jersey are generally subject to regulation by the Jersey Financial Services Commission ("JFSC"). The degree of regulation varies depending upon the type of fund. Investment funds which are offered to the public, for example, are regulated pursuant to the Collective Investment Funds (Jersey) Law 1988, as amended, (the "CIF Law") and must obtain a certificate from the JFSC, which will only be granted following an approval process involving scrutiny of all the documentation and key parties associated with the fund. Funds offered to more sophisticated investors, such as professional investor regulated schemes, Jersey expert funds or listed funds, are subject to lighter regulation.

In the Matter of the Mr & Mrs P Capital Asset Protection Plan Trust

November 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Carey Olsen.

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This is the first occasion on which a Jersey law trust has been set aside on the ground of mistake. Last year in the Matter of the Representation of DSL(R) Limited, the Royal Court, for the first time, set aside an English Law trust over which it had jurisdiction on this ground.

Obtaining Evidence and Assistance from the Jersey Court in Foreign Insolvency Matters

October 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The role of Jersey as a financial centre means that on occasions there will be a requirement for a foreign liquidator or an office-holder under bankruptcy legislation to obtain information or documentation from persons or companies located in the Island. There have been a series of recent court decisions establishing the appropriate levels of co-operation with other jurisdictions.

Private Equity and Venture Capital Limited Partnerships in Jersey

October 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Private equity and venture capital funds are typically established though the medium of limited partnerships and this Briefing therefore focuses upon the principal features, formation, regulation and taxation of limited partnerships established in Jersey for such purposes.

A Guide to Investment Funds in the

September 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The success of the final product is dependant on making many decisions. Whether they are; determining the target market, determining what type of investment fund is required, which compliance and regulatory regime will best suit the circumstances, establishing distribution channels, or introducing systems and procedures to support the operation of the fund, Ogier is in a position to assist you from the outset.

A Legal Road Map for Securitisation of Assets and other

September 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Ogier .

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The last couple of years have witnessed a formidable increase in the number of securitisation transactions completed in the British Virgin Islands, and there is much hope that the market share of the jurisdiction in the industry of offshore securitisations and structure finance transactions will continue to growth as it did its market share in the global investment funds industry.

Jersey Expert Funds

July 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This memorandum explains the regulatory classification for collective investment funds established in Jersey qualifying as 'expert funds'.

Jersey Listed Funds

July 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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This Briefing explains a new regulatory classification for listed investment funds established in Jersey, which was introduced by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the "Commission") with effect from 9 January 2007.

Creation of Security Over Movable Property Under Jersey Law

July 2008 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Many offshore financing and lending transactions involve the creation of charges over collateral which is situate in Jersey.

Is there still a role for a Protector in trusts?

November 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Baker & Partners.

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Potential settlors who may be considering placing assets into a trust tend to be concerned to ensure that there is an appropriate control over the manner in which the trustee administers the trust – naturally the law and regulatory requirements provide some control, but where a settlor seeks to ensure that his individual concerns and wishes are reflected in the administration of a trust, trust law has developed the role of the Protector, which is, or at least has been, an important role.

Developments in Jersey Funds

September 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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A key part of the recent efforts to promote Jersey's funds industry was the introduction of the Expert Funds Guide in 2005, which offers both speed and regulatory flexibility for those wishing to domicile funds in Jersey, for "expert" investors. The regime has been very successful, and has contributed to a period of accelerated growth in the Jersey funds sector. This was closely followed by the introduction of the Non-Domiciled Funds Guide - designed to make the administration of funds from Jersey simpler and more efficient.

Banking Business

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Banking Business (Amendment No. 5) (Jersey) Law 2007 came into force on 9 March 2007.

Memorandum of Understanding Between Jersey and Cyprus

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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The Jersey Financial Services Commission (the “Commission”) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission.

Consultation on Basel II Implementation

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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In August, the Commission issued a Consultation Paper entitled “Basel II in Jersey: Local Implementation Issues”. The new Basel Capital Accord (“Basel II”) establishes revised methodology for measuring the risks that a bank faces and for calculating the minimum level of capital required to protect against their potential impact.

Consultation on Amendments to the Banking Business (Jersey) Law 2006

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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In August, the Commission issued a Consultation Paper entitled “Amendments to the Banking Business (Jersey) Law 1991”. A number of amendments are proposed, the majority of which mirror equivalent measures already enshrined in the Financial Services (Jersey) Law 1998 and the Insurance Business (Jersey) Law 1996.

Memorandum of Understanding between Jersey and the Cayman Islands

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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In September, the Commission issued a joint press release with the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority announcing that they had both signed a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) which came into effect on 21 August 2006.

Anti-Money Laundering

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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In July, the Jersey Financial Services Commission (the “Commission”) issued Update No. 11 to its Anti-Money Laundering Guidance Notes. The Update revises Appendix D of the Guidance Notes to add the Cayman Islands to the list of countries and territories considered to have equivalent anti-money laundering frameworks in place and to set out more clearly the Commission’s expectations when a financial services business places reliance on a financial institution in an equivalent country or territory to have undertaken identification procedures.

Maintaining Momentum

May 2007 - Finance. Legal Developments by Bedell Cristin.

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Maintaining Momentum - The New Listed Fund Regime and Future Developments

Published in the Jersey Evening Post Finance in Law Supplement - March 2007


The investment funds sector in Jersey has experienced considerable success in recent years. The Island is well on its way to setting itself apart from other offshore centres as a first choice domicile for alternative investment funds and as a leading administration centre.