UK citizens and companies continue to focus on potential moves to Switzerland following the toughest UK budget in a generation

The Budget goes some way to improving UK's competitive business edge but Switzerland is still a viable option for individuals and companies seeking a less harsh tax environment. So Canton of Lucerne has teamed-up with Relocate to Switzerland (UK) & accountants BDO to promote the tax attractions of Lucerne with a London seminar, targeting medium to high net-worth individuals, hedge funds and companies.

Individuals are seeking to recoup lost value of their savings, investments, dividends and pensions and avoid higher taxes in the UK; UK companies are likely to see increased pressure on shareholder dividends by remaining in the UK, therefore the Swiss tax environment maybe prove more conducive to maintaining or increasing shareholder returns.

To date in excess of 70 companies and individuals have accepted a personal invitation to attend a seminar in London at BDO offices on 30 June; many had waited for the Budget results and are now confirming reservations, if we had advertised I’m sure we could have doubled attendance such is the level of interest.

London Presentation Coverage

With a month to go before the presentation we have in excess of 50 acceptances, comprising individuals, hedge funds and wealth management companies.

Press coverage has included articles in the Independent and Guardian newspapers, in addition to Sky TV & Swiss national radio; the Financial Times and Times newspapers will also be represented at the presentation. A further press release will be issued following the UK Budget statement on 22 June.

A number of Swiss organisations will have trade stands.

Hopefully we might attract 75-80 attendees; the are no World Cup soccer matches that evening!