Rooted in the civil law systems of continental Europe, where foundations originally served mainly charitable purposes, the private foundation is an innovative development in common law jurisdictions. More and more jursidictions are introducing private foundations as an alternative to trusts and practitioners are increasingly asked to advise clients on the intricacies of the developing law and the differences between jurisdictions.

Private Foundations World Survey is the first survey book to consider comprehensively private foundations law and practice in each of the key jurisdictions. With a unique questionnaire format and summary factsheet for easy reference, it examines all the fundamental aspects of setting up and maintaining a private foundation, with reference to relevant legislation and case law. The two expert editors, along with a team of leading international practitioners, cover an exhaustive range of topics, including protectors, taxation, alternatives to private foundations, forced heirship, divorce, asset protection, and migration of private foundations as well as anti-money laundering and KYC requirements.

Alongside 21 jurisdiction-specific chapters (which include jurisdictions where the law is still developing, as well as those with more established systems), the book contains general chapters on the uses of foundations and taxation issues in the UK and US. It thus provides readers with all the information they need to confidently assess and advise on any aspect of private foundations law.