A Clear Choice for Stability
Jersey has been a leading international finance centre (IFC) for more than sixty years, distinguished by its political and economic stability, robust regulatory framework, and commitment to global compliance standards.
With a workforce of almost 14,000 professionals, Jersey operates in a central time zone that aligns with business hours in mainland China. The Island’s financial infrastructure is substantial, with banks holding US$210 billion on deposit1 and fund administrators managing US$657 billion in assets2.
Jersey is amongst the leading jurisdictions for AIM companies registered outside the UK. Jersey is a leading IFC for listing vehicles, with 59 companies on the LSE and AIM3, and a combined market capitalisation of approximately US$192 billion4.
Strategically positioned as a gateway to UK and European markets, Jersey’s strong ties with London enhance its appeal to Asian investors. Though closely linked to Britain, Jersey maintains its autonomy with its own Parliament and judicial system, ensuring stability. Its tax-neutral environment supports efficient cross-border investment and prevents double taxation.
Raising the Bar
Jersey’s commitment to combating financial crime has been affirmed by recent MONEYVAL report findings, which highlight the Island’s high ranking in anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism.
This report is a strong endorsement of Jersey’s capabilities as a jurisdiction in combatting financial crime and reflects its commitment to upholding the very highest standards on the global stage.
Chief Executive Officer, Jersey Finance
Jersey’s Financial Services: A Deep Dive
Jersey’s investment management sector benefits from a foundation of robust regulation, stability, and security. The Island offers a range of investment products and services to suit every investor. Jersey is home to an array of companies that offer tailored services for a range of investors, including individuals, families, trusts, charities and institutions.
Case Studies
Jersey’s strength in investment management is exemplified by its involvement in the landmark redevelopment of Battersea Power Station, a US$10.9 billion project backed by significant Asian investment. Walkers has been a longstanding adviser to the Asian lenders involved, providing expert guidance through various stages of financing. Their experience establishing, acquiring, financing and disposing of holding structures for prime UK real estate assets highlights Jersey’s appeal to Asian investors.
Similarly, Mourant has played a critical role in advising three Asia-based joint venture equity partners in the same project over the past decade. The flexibility of Jersey company law and the Island’s familiarity with counterparties were key factors in the successful execution of these transactions.
The Singapore-listed Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), Suntec REIT, leverages Jersey for investing in the UK commercial property market. With a portfolio valued at US$842 million5, Suntec REIT’s investments extend beyond the UK, including significant property holdings in mainland China. The REIT’s strong financial performance, with a net property and joint venture income of more than US$19 million5, demonstrates how Jersey can support successful commercial property investments.
Corporate Services
Jersey’s corporate services sector is known for its mature, dynamic ecosystem that supports complex cross border operations, balancing innovation and high regulatory standards. Firms in Jersey provide advisory, fiduciary and support services, including the popular special purpose vehicles for real estate acquisitions in the UK, EU and the US.
Jersey has a track record of working with Asian corporates, working with Asian families and high-net worth individuals, assisting their investments into the UK.
Chief Commercial Officer, Hawksford
Banking
Jersey’s banking sector is distinguished by its innovative services and stability. The Island attracts deposits and investments from global institutions and private clients, supported by a flexible regulatory approach. Jersey’s banking sector features a mix of niche and digital banks alongside major global banking organisations. Services include investment solutions with a focus on the alternative investment funds industry, particularly in real estate, private equity (PE), and hedge funds.
The Ultimate Alternative to AIFMD Passports
Jersey’s world-class IFC provides a strategic and flexible approach to fund marketing within the EU. By utilising National Private Placement Regimes (NPPRs) for EU access, Jersey funds can bypass the potentially onerous Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) requirements, leading to significant operational and reporting cost savings, making Jersey an attractive IFC for capital from Asia. This translates to lower overall running costs and potentially higher returns for investors, all within a VAT-free jurisdiction.
In contrast, Luxembourg demands full AIFMD compliance, adding considerable operational costs and complexity. While Luxembourg funds benefit from passport access, the real-world advantage is limited. Ultimately, Jersey’s flexible approach to AIFMD offers a more cost-effective alternative for fund managers, maintaining a competitive edge in the global market.
The Jersey Private Fund (JPF) is a private investment fund that involves pooling capital raised for the fund and operates on the principle of risk spreading. JPFs benefit from light-touch regulation while still maintaining high standards. A number of the world’s largest PE firms use Jersey, with one of the largest PE funds globally being a JPF. With a 48-hour setup and no mandatory audits, JPFs are both cost-effective and versatile, making it an attractive product to investors seeking a flexible and efficient investment vehicle. Since their launch in 2017, 718 JPFs have formed, demonstrating their popularity and effectiveness as an investment vehicle6.
JPFs formed since their launch in 2017
Jersey for Investment Management
Jersey is ideally positioned for Asia-based clients as a mature financial centre with quality services and a gateway for investment into the UK and EU. Since 2005, we’ve been promoting Jersey’s finance industry in mainland China, with an established presence in Shanghai, Hong Kong SAR and Singapore. Our strong ties to Asia and expertise make us well-placed to support your investment management needs.
This article was originally published by China-Britain Business Council.
1 Exchange rate as at 2 September 2024. Jersey Financial Services Industry Report, March 2024
2 Jersey Financial Services Industry Report, March 2024
3 London Stock Exchange Listings, 30 June 2024
4 Exchange rate as at 2 September 2024. London Stock Exchange Listings, 30 June 2024
5 Exchange rate as at 2 September 2024. Suntec REIT UK Property Statistics, June 2024
6 Jersey Financial Services Industry Quarterly Report, 31 March 2024