A lot of investors are opening holding companies in Malta in order to benefit from the participation exemption regime. Holding companies serve as a great avenue for investors who want to hold assets in Malta or participate in other Maltese companies and yet benefit from the same operations and tax planning arrangements as other Maltese companies.
What is a holding company and what does it do
Malta has a well-evolved financial sector which has contributed to its robust economy over the years. This modernized financial technology business sector, is a product of the country’s proficient labor force and cutting edge IT systems. There has been a tremendous growth of the financial business since its birth in 2010 evidenced by a remarkable growth of 67% in only six years! The first quarter of 2016, marked a staggering 5.3 billion dollars’ worth of the Maltese financial technology businesses.
The Maltese government does not impose any restrictions in regards to the incorporation of offshore companies in the state. Maltese offshore companies are registered companies which operate in Malta but are run by foreign stakeholders. Setting up an offshore company in Malta comes with special benefits, such as lower tax rates as compared to that charged in their native states.
Malta is one of the most technologically savvy countries and is popular for its quick grasp on new technologies as well as implementation. It's also one of the few countries with smart cities. Being such a progressive country, Malta has attracted many IT investors from around the world and it's one of the best destinations for setting up a virtual office.
A European Societas (SE) is an organization created in Europe to promote business by giving other companies a chance to function in the region with limited restrictions that could exist in their parent countries. Malta has contributed by providing a regulation that enables a SE to be established in the state. The presence of SE in the state has a positive effect as it amplifies business possibilities and gives a better footing for big business deals. On the other hand, companies in search of a type of incorporation in either of the member states controlled by EU could find it valuable since it is managed on a narrow set of guidelines run by an integrated management system.
Malta is undeniably one of the best investment destinations in the world. Its financial sector is remarkable, and the Island is also among one of the few countries which have genuinely supported the growth and development of micro businesses in the European Union. Although setting up a business in Malta is generally very easy, a sole proprietorship is one of the most hassle-free legal structures one can adapt in Malta.
