Holding structures

A holding company organises shareholdings, protects assets and creates room for investment.

View of Delft · Johannes Vermeer, c. 1660–61

What it is about

With a holding company, you no longer hold your operating companies directly but through a company of your own. This separates risks, makes it easier to sell individual businesses and allows profits to be reinvested together.

We design holding structures that fit your shareholdings, your residence and your plans – from a simple intermediate holding to an asset-holding family company.

Who it is for

  • Entrepreneurs with several companies
  • Shareholders preparing a future sale
  • Families wishing to manage assets together
  • Investors with holdings in several countries

Scope of services

What we take care of.

01

Structure concept

We show which form of holding – domestic or international – makes sense for your shareholdings.

02

Contribution of existing shareholdings

We plan how existing shares can be transferred to the holding with as few tax disadvantages as possible.

03

Asset-holding companies

Structures for real estate, securities and shareholdings, separate from the operating business.

04

Profit flows and distributions

We plan the route of profits from subsidiary to holding and on to you.

05

Substance of the holding

To be recognised, a holding needs genuine management. We show what that involves.

06

Formation and administration

Registration, articles of association, bookkeeping and reporting from a single source.

Process

How we work.

01

Initial consultation

We record your shareholdings and your goals.

02

Draft structure

You receive a chart of the future structure with its advantages and disadvantages.

03

Implementation

Formation, transfer of shares and adjustment of contracts.

04

Administration

We look after the holding on an ongoing basis and adapt it as needed.

Frequently asked questions

Good to know.

When is a holding company worthwhile?

Often when profits are to be reinvested, several companies exist or a sale is planned. We calculate this for your case.

Does the holding have to be abroad?

No. A holding in your own country of residence is often the best solution. A foreign holding only makes sense if it suits your situation and has substance.

Can I restructure later?

Yes, holding structures can be adapted. The cleaner the structure is from the outset, the easier later changes become.

Related areas

Tax optimisation Foundations & trusts Inheritance & succession All services

W-V Law Firm LLP advises on formal company law and – where agreed – on the tax law of the United Kingdom. Tax and legal questions under German, Austrian or Swiss law are addressed together with qualified advisers from our network in your country.

Let’s talk about your plans.

We almost always reply the same day.

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