Having conflicts and wars going on somewhere around the world is not unusual. The Correlates of War Project states that there has been no year without war since 1816. We would like to take the opportunity to share our perspective on the effect this war has on Switzerland’s economy paired with some historical insights about how Switzerland managed to navigate through previous wars and conflicts as well as potential investment opportunities that arise from the situation.

This episode talks about Jamie’s background in wealth management and banking in Switzerland. Potential international solutions for US investors. Typical funding requirements when it comes to Swiss banking. What to consider before investing in Switzerland or other offshore places? The importance of relationship building and trust in wealth management. Asset protection using Swiss banking products/methods? A brief overview on the taxation of international accounts for US investors. Typical fees when it comes to investing in a Swiss account. Could you borrow against your Swiss Bank funds by leveraging it as collateral? What are the typical rates of return on a Swiss investment (example of one type of investment) account? Can you use a self-directed IRA to own a Swiss account? Do we convert US dollars into other currencies when investing offshore? If so, what are the advantages of doing so? How does one measure the strength of the US dollar? Do you have to physically go to Switzerland to open a Swiss bank account?

Over the last few weeks, the G7 committee laid out plans to impose a minimum corporate tax rate of 15%. Companies looking to attract investors and minimize their tax burden have been able to find countries willing to give them a lower tax rate; this, in turn, helps the company grow and maintain value. Switzerland is one of the countries that attracts companies to its economy by using competitive tax rates. It is part of what makes Switzerland's economy so strong and competitive. Even though the Swiss government plans to sign on to the agreement for a global minimum tax rate, they are developing a subsidies plan to encourage the larger corporations to stay.

In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of Bridgeford Trust Company and President/CEO of Bridgeford – sits down with guest, Jamie Vrijhof-Droese – Managing Partner at WHVP – for a discussion on WHVP’s origins, focus, and services as well as their work with U.S. citizens. David and Jamie go on to discuss the COVID crisis and its impact on their investment approach.

Featuring: David S. Lesperance, Founder, Lesperance Associates, Urs Vrijhof-Droese, Managing Partner, WHVP (in Switzerland) & Allan Maksymec, Partner, Strategic Swiss Advisors.

The Swiss financial market supervisory authority released a statement last month confirming the stability of Swiss banks. In the statement FINMA notes that "the operations of financial institutions and the financial market infrastructure in Switzerland are continuing to function well. The institutions are also well equipped to deal with extreme stress scenarios."

If we have learned one thing from COVID-19, it is that life is unpredictable. A crisis can hit at any time and without notice. One thing you can do to protect yourself is to bring part of your wealth offshore. There are several suitable countries, but we firmly believe that Switzerland should be your number one choice. Let me share a little bit about Switzerland and why it is such a great country for wealth protection.

Switzerland has long been the world’s top offshore financial center. And for good reason. Its sophistication and professionalism are legendary. Plus, it has a distinct history, tradition, and culture that sincerely values privacy, neutrality, and independence.

Ted Bauman interviews Jamie Vrijhof-Droese on her new book with Bob Bauman. Bob Bauman's new book is an overview of the many investment opportunities for Americans in Switzerland to add an international diversification component to their investment portfolios. Completely legal and complaint with the SEC to invest offshore in Switzerland. View full video for details!