“Unlocking the world of Financial Services: The Role of Transparency and Strategic Leadership”
Aspen Trust Group is known to serve globally with its diverse and integrated range of tailor-made professional services along with practical advise for corporations and individuals. Can you discuss some of the international services offered by you?
The Aspen Trust Group is one of the pioneers of the corporate service industry in Cyprus. Since the establishment of the Group in 1998, it provides financial management, consulting services and international structuring solutions to Corporates and High Net Worth Individuals. Specific services include the setup and management of entities globally, legal and administration services, banking, tax compliance and tax planning, accounting and financial reporting, payroll, financial management and restructuring, redomiciliation, patent registration, residency and immigration, cross-border mergers, family office services, intellectual property consulting and headquartering.
Our Group has risen to a prominent position in the Cyprus’ financial services industry, earning prestigious accolades such as (1) the City wealth International Financial Centers (IFC) Winner Award for Trust Company of the Year (Mediterranean) 2024. This accolade follows the company’s receipt of (2) the GOLD Award for Trust Company of the Year (Mediterranean) in 2023. Additionally, Aspen Trust Group has been recognized as (3)Corporate INTL the Global Awards Winner 2024 for International Transaction Structuring Advisory Firm, (4) The Best Corporate Business Service Providers 2023 by Industry Outreach Middle East, (5)the Tax Advisory of the Year 2023 in Cyprus by Global Law Experts, and many more. These achievements reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation, solidifying our reputation as a trusted partner in the financial sector.
Aspen Trust Group has a global presence while operating in multiple jurisdictions across the globe. What are your services available for the Indian Clientele looking for corporate services?
We offer a comprehensive range of professional services to our Indian clients, just as we do for our global clientele. We found that many Indian clients are particularly interested in certain services that Cyprus offers. For example, registering an intellectual property (IP) company in Cyprus under the attractive “IP Box” regime, provides an 80% income tax exemption on worldwide royalty income from IP owned by Cypriot resident companies and effectively lowers the tax rate to 2.5% or less.
We also assist Indian Tech companies in setting up their headquarters in Cyprus, offering services to support their establishment and long-term growth in European markets. Additionally, we help Indian companies set up active import/export companies in Western markets, providing expert tax consultancy to ensure compliance and benefit from favorable tax regimes.
Another area of interest is supporting Bollywood producers and other film production companies that wish to film in Cyprus. We provide a one-stop solution for their needs, including the setup of film companies, tax consultancy, film or production accounting and securing government benefits. Companies choosing to film in Cyprus can opt for either a cash rebate or tax credit, alongside tax discounts on investments in equipment and infrastructure, and VAT refunds on eligible expenditures.
Our CEO, Ms. Marina Zevedeou, is uniquely positioned to understand the needs of Indian clients as she is the President of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI) in Cyprus and has a well-established relationship with the Indian High Commission in Cyprus. She is deeply involved in promoting business connections between India and Cyprus. This strong relationship, combined with her role as the Cyprus Country Chair of the G100 Global Trade Wing, allow our Group to provide tailored services that align with the specific needs of Indian entrepreneurs and companies.
Today, you stand tall with a long-chequered journey; with demonstrated experience of more than 20 years of working in the financial services sector. How do you look back on this?
Reflecting on our Group’s 26-year journey in the financial services sector, we take pride in our achievements and growth. Our success stems from our ability to adapt and innovate in a changing industry landscape.
We are especially proud of our diverse team, which includes employees from around the world. This global perspective enriches our approach and enhances our service to clients. Our commitment to visionary thinking, strategic decision-making and adding value to clients has been key to our success.
Our progress has been driven by collaboration, integrity, resilience, and authenticity. Transparent communication has also played a crucial role in building strong relationships. Overall, our journey has been characterized by continuous improvement and a commitment to leveraging our diverse team to excel in the dynamic world of financial services.
What are some of key principles that set you apart from others as you offer financial optimization structuring tools to businesses?
At the Aspen Trust Group, several key principles set us apart in offering financial optimization and structuring tools to businesses. We are passionately proactive, carefully reactive, and we hold our clients by the hand at all times.
We view our clients as family, understanding that their financial success provides security and support for their family. The vision of Aspen Trust Group is to be part of each client’s success story by providing tailored, professional solutions. Additionally, we offer personalized service, working closely with both corporate and private clients to deliver strong, flexible, and evolving business solutions, guided by the Aspen tree philosophy. This approach helps us grow our clients’ potential into thriving business success.