Advice on increasing capacity to expand

One of our large RSL clients was looking to significantly increase its capacity to expand the number of units under management, whilst not burdening itself with significant property investment. 
 
After careful consideration a £100m investment trust was created, enabling investors to invest in a range of property portfolios.  While the association would manage the property, overall ownership of the property would rest with the investors.
 
Our audit and tax teams advised the client on the tax and financial implications of setting up and operating the trust, which was operated overseas. Our work involved the consideration and negotiation of complex financial and tax structures, which helped maximise the tax position of the RSL and appropriate control, operation and accounting disclosures of the fund.
 
The RSL was able to continue to widen it's portfolio without financial outlay of purchasing the property.  It was also able to sell property into the offshore trust to raise additional finance.