The Cook Islands Financial Services Development Authority (Cook Islands Finance) featured at the prestigious STEP Miami Summit, a premier event attracting leading trust and estate practitioners from around the globe.
As a key sponsor, Cook Islands Finance leveraged the event to highlight the jurisdiction’s world class asset protection solutions and connect with high-net-worth individuals and their trusted advisors. The event served as an important platform to promote the Cook Islands’ role in the global financial services industry.
“The Cook Islands Government recognises the importance of economic diversity, with the trust and financial services industry being an important contributor to of our economy for decades,” stated Tony Fe’ao, CEO of Cook Islands Finance.
“Events like STEP Miami enable us to demonstrate our commitment to providing world-class financial products while facilitating connections that help grow our economy.”
Fe’ao was joined in Florida by experienced trust practitioners Tine Ponia of Asiaciti Trust Cook Islands, Fronz Tiseli of Cook Islands Trust Corporation, and Jenner Davis of MIRU Global – all of who have extensive global experience in trust and estate planning.
The team showcased the strength of the jurisdiction’s laws and its ability to meet the evolving needs of global families and businesses.
Miami-based trust lawyer Blake Harris added depth to the Cook Islands presence with his presentation at the exclusive Cook Islands Trust & Estate Planning Forum, also held at the Ritz Carlton, the summit. His insights from a US practitioner’s perspective underscored the relevance of Cook Islands trusts in estate planning and asset protection for American clients.
“Both the Summit and Forum provided exceptional opportunities to engage with wealth and estate planners from key markets across Latin America and the US,” stated Fe’ao. “Our presence, and that of trust company representatives, provided a springboard for meaningful conversations about our jurisdiction’s offerings.”
The STEP Miami Summit also tackled timely themes, including compliance in the age of AI and fake news, global market investment strategies, and whether offshore structures remain advantageous. These topics resonated with the Cook Islands delegation, who showcased the jurisdiction’s political stability, robust legal framework, and forward-looking solutions tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
With over 80% of Cook Islands trust business originating from the US, Cook Islands Finance is committed to maintaining a strong presence in the region. Building on the momentum from STEP Miami, the Authority continues to demonstrate why the Cook Islands is a premier jurisdiction for asset protection and wealth management.
Cook Islands Finance will participate in STEP ASIA, Singapore, and Outbound Asia in Shanghai in November 2024.
