Beneficial Ownership

Example

If an individual holds shares in a company through a trust, the individual is the beneficial owner of those shares, even though the trust is the legal owner.

Key points

• Refers to the person who enjoys the benefits of ownership, even if the asset is in another name.

• Essential for transparency and regulation in financial and corporate sectors.

• Helps prevent illicit activities by identifying the true owners behind assets or companies.

Quick Answers to Curious Questions

Why is identifying beneficial ownership important?

It ensures transparency and helps prevent illegal activities like money laundering by revealing the true individuals who control assets or companies.

How does beneficial ownership differ from legal ownership?

Legal ownership is the formal title or registration of an asset, while beneficial ownership refers to the person who actually benefits from the asset.

In what situations is beneficial ownership commonly relevant?

Beneficial ownership is crucial in situations involving trusts, corporate ownership, and financial regulation to determine who really controls or benefits from assets.