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An offshore endowment offers South African investors a simple, consolidated way to access international markets—paired with estate planning, tax benefits, and platform flexibility.
Structured as an international life policy, the offshore wrapper enables you to hold a diverse, global investment portfolio in hard currency, while simplifying administration and improving long-term tax outcomes.
We offer solutions that accommodate both managed portfolios and client-selected investments, giving you control where you want it and expert oversight where you need it.
Sometimes called investment wrappers, an offshore endowment is a life policy issued by an international insurer, structured to hold offshore investments in a tax-efficient, estate-friendly manner.
Long-term investors seeking offshore exposure, tax simplicity, and efficient estate planning—either in their personal name or via a trust/company.
USD, GBP, EUR, AUD, and CHF.
Typically USD25,000 (or equivalent). Additional contributions can be made from a minimum of USD5,000.
No, only lump sum investments are allowed. Additional lump sums may be added.
The minimum term is five years. After that, you may access the funds freely.
Partial withdrawals are possible within the first five years, subject to restrictions. Full withdrawals may attract early exit fees, especially in the first three years.
Early surrender may incur a fee if selected at inception. After five years, withdrawals are unrestricted.
Tax is calculated, collected, and paid on your behalf within the wrapper. You have no personal reporting obligations.
Tax on capital gains, interest, rental income, and foreign dividends. The rates applied may be lower than your marginal tax rate.
Yes. The wrapper can include offshore share portfolios—managed or self-directed.
Yes. You can select from a global range of funds or use pre-built model portfolios.
The policy pays out to your nominated beneficiaries—either as a transfer of ownership or as a cash benefit—bypassing foreign estate complications.
Yes. Nominating beneficiaries can avoid delays and reduce executor fees. The policy also avoids situs asset complications.
After three years, and under certain conditions, the benefits may be protected from claims against your estate or personal insolvency.
In a stable international jurisdiction with strong financial regulation (e.g., Bermuda).
Yes. Natural persons, trusts, and companies may hold the investment.
Yes. All investments are reported in a single, easy-to-understand statement—with online access.
Yes. You can switch between funds or portfolios without triggering immediate tax consequences within the wrapper.
Contact your advisor or speak to us to begin the onboarding process, including guidance on currency transfer and tax clearance.
Offshore investment wrappers offer South African investors access to international markets – with potential tax savings, simplified estate planning, and protection benefits.
Whether you’re investing personally or via a trust or company, Cratos Asset Management can help you structure your offshore strategy with confidence.