In recent years the Principality of Liechtenstein has become increasingly popular amongst international investors as an investment fund centre.

The basis for this is the Investment Company Act of 1996.

This means an investment company can either be established as an investment fund on a contractual basis, i.e. as a trust, or as a stock corporation with a corporate structure.

A distinction is drawn essentially between three forms:

• Investment companies for securities
• Investment companies for property
• Investment companies for other assets

Investment companies require government approval, and are subject to the supervision of the Liechtenstein Financial Services Office.