The island’s history as an international financial centre has its origins in World War II, when Dutch companies seeking protection moved their assets here. Over the years, Curaçao became a popular base for holding companies, shipping, insurance and licensing companies, banks and mutual funds. Today, Curaçao’s fiscal and regulatory framework complies fully with the regulations set by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Its trade is supported by trade agreements with the European Union and the United States. Moreover, Curaçao benefits from all bilateral tax and investment treaties signed by the Netherlands.

Key features

• Separate (non-EU) country within Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Well-developed financial sector
• OECD compliant, business-friendly regulatory environment 
• Favourable time zone for dealings with US and Latin American markets
• Around 90 bilateral investment treaties (BITs)

United in Curaçao
Curaçao is a key location for United, being home to United Bank as well as to one of our larger offices. United is a leading player in the Curaçao financial services market, thanks in part to the exceptional expertise of United founder Gregory Elias. Earlier, in his capacity as Special Council in matters of international finance and tax to the Netherlands Antilles government, he helped shape the reforms that onshored this market. Our Willemstad office employs 40 highly qualified staff, and offers our full range of corporate, investment industry and private wealth services, working seamlessly with any local service providers needed to create and monitor your tailored solution. A particular strength of our Curaçao office is environmental market services, including the creation of carbon funds as well as carbon custody and escrow.