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Cook Islands trust experts headline Estate Planning Forum in Miami

The Cook Islands Financial Services Development Authority (operating as Cook Islands Finance) is pleased to announce the Cook Islands Trust & Estate Planning Forum, taking place in the Davis Room at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Key Biscayne, Miami.

This forum will highlight the jurisdiction’s expertise in wealth management, asset protection, and international estate planning, featuring insights from three highly experienced trust law practitioners.

Blake Harris – Blake Harris Law
Blake Harris, founding principal of Blake Harris Law, specialises in Offshore Asset Protection for clients globally. His extensive expertise in Cook Islands trusts allows him to provide comprehensive guidance on utilising the jurisdiction’s world-class asset protection structures. With a network built through travels to over 40 countries, Blake collaborates with trust companies, protectors, and private bankers, making him a vital asset in the forum’s discussions.

Tine Ponia – Asiaciti Trust Cook Islands
Tine Ponia brings a wealth of knowledge in commercial litigation and the trust industry as Managing Director of Asiaciti Trust, Cook Islands. A full member of STEP, Tine graduated with top honours in commercial law from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, and is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Courts of both the Cook Islands and New Zealand. Her nearly 2 decades of expertise is essential in illuminating the complexities of trust law and its applications.

Jenner Davis – MIRU Global
With decades of experience in law, international finance, and asset protection, Jenner, whose family is from Rarotonga, was the first CEO of Cook Islands Financial Services Development Authority – significantly influencing the development of the Cook Islands financial services Industry. Now based in New York State, she leverages her deep knowledge of the Cook Islands’ products and services to guide clients in effective wealth management strategies. Her background and understanding of the jurisdiction enhance the forum’s focus on Cook Islands’ asset protection solutions.

Also in attendance will be Fronzuance Tiseli, Senior Legal Counsel at Cook Islands Trust Corporation. Admitted in New Zealand and the Cook Islands, she holds the TEP designation. Fronzuance Tiseli expertly manages client entities, administers trust transactions, and establishes tailored structures for clients.

“One of the key outcomes of hosting events like the Cook Islands Trust & Estate Planning Forum is to engage directly with international professionals, raising awareness of the Cook Islands’ cutting-edge trust laws,” stated Tony Fe’ao, CEO of Cook Islands Finance.

“The forum provides a platform for our trust providers to connect with peers, share insights on the latest products, and explore developments in case law and legislation. These opportunities position the Cook Islands as a premier destination for wealth preservation and estate planning solutions,” Fe’ao added.

The event will feature presentations highlighting proposed legislative updates to the Cook Islands International Trust Act, insights into new solutions such as the Cook Islands International Relationship Property Trust and jurisdictional overview of the jurisdiction.

Through this event, the Cook Islands aims to strengthen relationships with international estate planners and promote the advantages of using the jurisdiction for trustee services and asset protection on a global scale.

The Cook Islands Trust & Estate Planning Forum will take place on 23 October 2024 at the Ritz Carlton, Miami, bringing together estate planners, wealth managers, and legal professionals to explore the latest trends in asset protection and international trust structures.

The team will also be attending the 13th Annual STEP Miami Summit at the same venue.

Register your interest to attend the Cook Islands Trust & Estate Planning Forum or email enquiry@fsda.gov.ck.

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