Insights

In 2025, Qatar is tightening its compliance infrastructure, with the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) introducing a comprehensive update to its Customer Due Diligence (CDD) framework.

Malaysia’s new family office regime in Forest City is one of the most generous tax incentives in the region, but also one of the most demanding in terms of compliance and substance. For families considering an Asian base alongside Singapore or Hong Kong, it offers a unique mix of accessibility and long-term certainty. With the right structuring, it could become a cornerstone of regional wealth planning.

The UAE remains an attractive jurisdiction for international business and wealth structuring—but account opening is not automatic, and it’s never guaranteed. Treating banking as part of the strategic plan—not a post-incorporation chore—can make the difference between smooth setup and months of lost time.

In June 2025, Singapore’s Corporate Service Provider (CSP) Act came fully into force—without much media fanfare, but with serious implications for company formation, nominee arrangements, and transparency obligations in one of the world’s most respected corporate jurisdictions.

On May 9, 2025, the People’s Bank of China released new data protection rules for financial institutions. These rules restrict how cross-border banking, credit reporting, and payment firms store, process, and transfer data—impacting all foreign-invested entities with financial operations or fintech components in China.

Singapore’s VCC structure is no longer just a tool for professional asset managers. It has evolved into a smart, strategic solution for families who need flexibility, legal certainty, and international reach—especially in an era of growing global tax scrutiny and compliance complexity.

Why Swiss Family Offices Are Relocating to Dubai — A Corporate Tax Perspective

Since being removed from the FATF grey list in early 2024, the UAE has significantly accelerated its regulatory reforms, strengthening its AML/CTF framework across high-risk sectors. These efforts are now delivering measurable impact.

The UAE has taken a decisive step toward regulatory efficiency by streamlining compliance requirements for businesses.

The FTA now requires that any changes to your company’s tax registration information — including trade license updates, business activity changes, legal structure, contact details, and shareholder information — must be reported within 20 business days. Failing to do so could result in penalties, especially once the grace period ends in March 2025.

Whether you’re navigating company formation, managing visas, or handling accounting and compliance, Bolster Group offers end-to-end support throughout your entire business journey. Let us help you turn your vision into reality—quickly, smoothly, and with confidence.

Financial management shouldn’t be a roadblock to your business growth. By outsourcing CFO services, you gain access to expert financial leadership, strategic insights, and cost-effective solutions—all without the commitment of a full-time hire.

Bolster Group is dedicated to helping businesses thrive by providing expert guidance and comprehensive services for setting up and relocating companies in the world’s best jurisdictions for quality of life. Our experience and local knowledge ensure a smooth and efficient establishment process, allowing businesses to focus on growth and success.

In 2017, the State Council introduced the "New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan," setting a clear roadmap for advancing AI innovation and integration by 2030. This plan emphasises the integration of AI across various sectors, aiming to enhance efficiency and drive economic growth.

Navigating estate planning in the UAE is both challenging and essential, as it requires an in-depth understanding of local regulations, cultural dynamics, and financial conditions. Expats need a customised approach that considers regional differences and personal circumstances.

The Hong Kong government is set to present the draft legislation on January 8, 2025. This marks the beginning of a formal review and discussion of the proposed re-domiciliation regime. If the legislation is passed, it will provide an efficient pathway for foreign companies to relocate their domicile to Hong Kong and benefit from its favorable business environment.

The UAE is at the forefront of the fintech revolution in the Middle East, driven by strong government support, advanced digital infrastructure, and a favorable regulatory environment. The rise of digital payments, innovation hubs, and fintech adoption offers numerous benefits and opportunities. Despite challenges, the future outlook for fintech in the UAE remains promising.

At Bolster Group, we are committed to removing barriers to global business and creating opportunities for everyone, everywhere. We ensure full compliance with local laws and streamline the visa process in Hong Kong, making international expansion seamless and efficient.

The UAE has announced critical updates to its Value Added Tax (VAT) law, effective November 15, 2024, introducing new exemptions that target key sectors. These amendments are designed to enhance the nation’s position as a global hub for investment, technology, and philanthropy while simplifying tax compliance and fostering economic growth.

Whether you need assistance with transaction monitoring, beneficial ownership transparency, or overall compliance management, Bolster Group is your trusted partner. By leveraging our compliance support and CFO services, your business can confidently meet regulatory obligations while focusing on growth and innovation. Choose Bolster Group for unparalleled expertise and peace of mind in achieving AML compliance.

At Bolster Group, our team brings extensive expertise in incorporating and implementing the legal framework for Hong Kong Family Offices. Contact us to discover how we can provide tailored support and guidance.

Effective from 1 July 2024, significant amendments to China’s Company Law have been introduced, directly impacting the operations of multinational enterprises. These changes span various aspects of company operations, including the powers and responsibilities of company members, the structure and scope of work of boards and committees, capital contributions, provisions for smaller enterprises and others.

At Bolster, we are committed to keeping you informed on developments in the UAE’s dynamic business landscape. If you are a startup interested in establishing yourself within DIFC, we provide end-to-end support, guiding you through the setup process, regulatory requirements, and beyond. Partner with Bolster to turn your vision into a reality in one of the world’s most supportive startup environments.

The QFII system represents a crucial step in opening China’s financial markets to the world. While the initial measures are designed to ensure controlled and regulated entry of foreign capital, the second phase of regulation holds the promise of further liberalisation, increased investment opportunities, and enhanced market integration. As China continues to evolve its financial landscape, the QFII system will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of global investment in China's expanding economy.

Several countries have achieved remarkable rankings this year, granting their citizens extensive travel freedom. Bolster Group examines the top passports and the key factors influencing their rankings, providing comprehensive information about global access and mobility. ‍

The Central Bank of the UAE's Sandbox Conditions Regulation aims to attract start-ups and fintech companies by allowing them to test innovative services without a license for a limited time, provided they comply with mandatory regulations and plan to launch in the UAE.

While addressing climate change, Singapore is adhering to the regulations of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) that serves as a framework largely used to assess a company’s environmental footprint, social contribution, and governance standards within the community.

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new Emiratisation rule for companies employing between 20 and 49 staff members. This important change aims to reinforce the local workforce and support economic inclusivity. Effective immediately, these firms are required to have at least one Emirati national among their employees.

Following the second year of Sustainability, the UAE launches a new long-term residency visa — Blue Visa. The UAE government has made a respective announcement this year on May 15.

After two years of enhanced efforts to address vulnerabilities in the UAE’s policy towards countering financial crimes the country has officially been removed from the FATF’s grey list as of February 2024.

With the implementation of the UAE Corporate Tax, certain small businesses are eligible to apply for tax relief until the end of 2026.

The complexity of achieving compliance varies depending on the size and scope of an organisation, as well as the countries in which it operates. Each country has its own set of rules that are subject to frequent updates and vary significantly, and it’s management’s responsibility to ensure their companies are compliant in all their countries of operation.

Bitcoin has experienced a significant increase of nearly 160% since October, with 44% of the growth occurring in February alone, and its rate continues to set new records, surpassing the all-time high of $68,999.99 in November 2021. This surge comes in stark contrast to the previous year when the market faced an 18-month crypto winter marked by corporate bankruptcies and scandal.

In January 2022, the UAE Ministry of Finance announced plans to introduce a federal Corporate Tax (CT) on businesses' net profits. Thus, the UAE is pursuing the following goals: