Private Trust Company:
Take Control of Multi-Generational Wealth
Preserve Wealth, Empower Your Family,
and Build a Multi-Generational Future
A Private Trust Company (PTC) is a bespoke estate planning structure that allows a family to manage its own trusts through a company they control. It gives affluent families greater flexibility, privacy, and long-term control over the management and distribution of their assets — across generations and jurisdictions.
Why Consider a Private Trust Company?
✅ Family-Centric Governance
✅ Customised Wealth Planning
Offers flexibility in structuring trusts tailored to unique family and business needs.
✅ Confidentiality & Control
Maintains privacy and long-term control over complex assets and succession plans.
Benefits of a Private Trust Company
Family members can sit on the board, allowing for direct involvement in decisions on asset distribution and trust governance.
Ideal for families with complicated asset structures, multiple generations, or cross-border interests that require bespoke solutions.
Consolidate multiple trusts under one PTC for simplified administration, reporting, and compliance.
May offer tax structuring advantages when managing international assets or wealth transfers across jurisdictions.
Allows family members to gradually take over key roles, facilitating smoother transitions in leadership and stewardship.
Since a PTC handles only the family’s trusts, it avoids public scrutiny and maintains tight control over sensitive information.
Combine professional advisors (e.g., lawyers, accountants) with family insight for balanced, well-informed decisions.
Establish and protect family values, philanthropic goals, and long-term wealth intentions through structured governance.
Common Misconceptions About Private Trust Companies
❌ “Only billionaires need PTCs.”
Truth: While popular among the ultra-wealthy, PTCs are also useful for any family with significant assets or long-term planning needs.
❌ “You lose independence with a company structure.”
Truth: PTCs actually offer more control, with family members often appointed as directors or decision-makers.
❌ “It’s too complicated to set up.”
Truth: With proper guidance, establishing a PTC is straightforward and manageable.
How a Private Trust Company Preserves Wealth and Strengthens Family Governance
Example 1: Preserving Family Harmony Through Shared Governance
Scenario:
The Ng family had substantial business and real estate holdings. Disagreements among siblings over asset distribution created ongoing tension.
Outcome:
They set up a Private Trust Company, allowing each sibling to have representation on the board. With a defined governance structure, decisions became transparent and fair, reducing conflict.
Key Takeaway:
A PTC can serve as a neutral platform to preserve harmony and promote collective decision-making in families with shared wealth.
Example 2: Managing Cross-Border Assets for a Global Family
Scenario:
Mr. Ariff, a Singapore-based entrepreneur, had children living in the U.S., U.K., and Australia. His estate included companies and properties in various countries.
Outcome:
He established a PTC to manage trusts holding global assets. This provided unified oversight, ensured legal compliance across jurisdictions, and helped each heir receive their inheritance seamlessly.
Key Takeaway:
A PTC simplifies the administration of international assets and supports coordinated estate planning for globally dispersed families.
Example 3: Multi-Generational Philanthropy and Wealth Stewardship
Scenario:
Madam Teo wanted to use part of her wealth for charitable giving but also wished to involve her grandchildren in philanthropic decisions.
Outcome:
Her PTC was structured to manage both family trusts and a family foundation. Younger family members sat on the philanthropic committee, learning governance and family values.
Key Takeaway:
PTCs are powerful tools for passing down not just wealth, but values and responsibilities, through structured legacy-building.
Private Trust Company vs Business Succession Trust:
What’s the Difference?
Family-controlled entity to manage family trusts
Ideal for managing multiple trusts or large estates
Offers long-term control and family governance
Suitable for high-net-worth families
Prioritizes wealth preservation across generations
Ensures business continuity after owner’s death/incapacity
Suitable for entrepreneurs and business owners
Prioritizes operational continuity and leadership transition
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is a Private Trust Company?
A PTC is a company created to act as trustee for one or more family trusts.
❓ Can family members be directors?
Yes, family members often serve on the board to ensure direct control.
❓ Is a PTC regulated in Singapore?
PTCs are exempt from licensing if used only for specific family trusts.
❓ Can a PTC manage overseas assets?
Yes, a PTC can be structured to handle cross-border asset management.
❓ Can I remain in control of my assets with an Active Trust?
Yes, you maintain full control of your assets during your lifetime, while a professional trustee can step in when needed, according to your instructions.
❓ Who should consider setting up a Private Trust Company?
Families with complex assets or long-term wealth transfer goals.
Testimonials
“Setting up a PTC was the best decision for our family’s long-term goals. It gave us more say in managing our wealth.”
“Our family trusts used to be a headache. Now everything is organised and efficient thanks to our Private Trust Company.”
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