Can the “Buy, Borrow, Die” Strategy Work in Cross-Border Wealth Planning?
Among ultra-high-net-worth families, few wealth-planning concepts have attracted as much attention as the so-called “Buy, Borrow, Die” strategy...
July 22, 2026
Among ultra-high-net-worth families, few wealth-planning concepts have attracted as much attention as the so-called “Buy, Borrow, Die” strategy...
July 22, 2026
Filter
Investing in or borrowing Swiss francs (CHF) in a 0% interest rate environment can seem boring at first glance. From our perspective, however, CHF strategies are…
February 20, 2026
As 2026 unfolds, global investors face a landscape defined less by crisis response and more by strategic recalibration. Inflation has moderated, interest rates have normalized, and…
January 16, 2026
Recent developments in global markets have renewed attention on the US dollar and its longer-term trajectory. Rising fiscal deficits, inflationary pressures, and ongoing geopolitical shifts have…
November 14, 2025
By James Phillips, Partner, Alpen Partners Taxation takes many forms across jurisdictions—income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, VAT, and in some cases, wealth taxes. Then…
July 30, 2025Discover our bespoke investment philosophy solutions with Alpen.
Disciplined and independent framework
Rule-based and research driven process
Customisation and risk management
In the dynamic world of investing, the adage attributed to Cicero, "More is lost through indecision than by wrong decision," carries timeless wisdom. Investors often find…
February 28, 2025
The Swiss franc is often associated with financial stability, supported by Switzerland's low debt-to-GDP ratio of around 38%, one of the lowest among developed nations. This…
September 2, 2024Discover our bespoke investment philosophy solutions with Alpen.
Disciplined and independent framework
Rule-based and research driven process
Customisation and risk management
Embracing a transition for long-term financial Incorporating currency diversification into your investment strategy is a pivotal step in risk mitigation, return enhancement, and the fortification of…
November 27, 2023Loading news...
Website: Agenza GmbH
Following the establishment of his Swiss banking structure, David required a coordinated framework to manage assets across jurisdictions while maintaining compliance with U.S. reporting obligations.
Alpen integrated his assets into a Swiss wealth management structure tailored for internationally active clients. The focus was on aligning investment strategy, currency exposure, and financial planning within a single cross-border framework.
Switzerland’s stable political environment, strong financial sector, and long-standing expertise in wealth management provided a reliable foundation for administering David’s international assets.
With the Swiss account in place, Alpen integrated it into a broader offshore banking structure designed for diversification and asset protection.
The Swiss banking environment also offered political stability, robust financial regulation, and a historically strong currency base.
As part of his relocation planning, David explored the process of establishing residency in Switzerland. For non-EU citizens such as U.S. nationals, residency typically requires either employment in Switzerland, the establishment of a local company, or a negotiated tax arrangement with cantonal authorities.
Working alongside local legal and tax advisors, Alpen helped David evaluate the available options and coordinate the financial aspects of the move. This included aligning banking structures, documenting international assets, and preparing financial disclosures required during the residency process.
Opening a Swiss bank account as a U.S. client follows a defined onboarding process based on regulatory requirements and internal bank standards. This includes identity verification, source-of-wealth documentation, and alignment with international reporting frameworks. It also involves coordination with the selected institution, including the negotiation of account terms and applicable fee structures.
As part of the onboarding, David was required to provide detailed documentation regarding his financial background and the origin of his assets. Minimum deposit thresholds and internal bank criteria were also considered when selecting the appropriate institution.
Once all documentation was complete and approved, the account opening process typically took approximately 1–2 weeks. Alpen then coordinated the initial asset transfers and ensured a smooth transition from existing banking relationships.
