BVI Finance took centre stage at the Outbound Investment Summit 2025 in Shanghai from November 10th-12th, highlighting the British Virgin Islands’ (BVI) enduring partnership with China and its leadership in international finance. The Summit convened over 300 C-suite executives and business leaders to examine the evolving landscape of offshore wealth planning, global investment trends, and the critical role of international financial centres (IFCs) in a changing world.
For nearly 40 years, the BVI has been a trusted partner in China’s growth and innovation story, with BVI structures facilitating cross-border investment, business expansion, and international wealth creation. Today, more than 40% of the beneficial owners of BVI structures are from China, a testament to the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between the two markets.
Day One of the Summit saw BVI Finance CEO Elise Donovan take the stage as a featured panelist in the session titled “Safeguarding Your Financial Future: The Key to Preserving Your Wealth.” She joined an esteemed panel that included Terai Boaza (Legal Counsel, Trustees & Fiduciaries, speaking on behalf of Cook Islands Finance), Greg Crawford (CEO, Crawford Trust Company LLC), and Sean Deng (Vice President, Morgan Vantage).
The discussion explored the growing demand among Chinese clients for offshore wealth planning, emphasizing the importance of cross-border asset protection structures in an era defined by global transparency and regulatory reform. Panelists exchanged insights on how international cooperation, stricter due diligence, and enhanced information sharing have strengthened the integrity and stability of the global financial system.
In her remarks, Elise reaffirmed the BVI’s 40-year relationship with China, emphasizing the jurisdiction’s proven success, trusted legal framework, and deep expertise across its global professional network. She underscored that BVI structures have long been instrumental in facilitating Chinese innovation and expansion:
“As China continues to innovate and grow, BVI vehicles have been key enablers of that success,” said Elise.
On the second day of the Summit, Elise Donovan took the stage to present “Destination Digital – The Strategic Priorities of Global Fintech Executives.” Her presentation revealed findings from a comprehensive survey of 677 fintech executives across major global financial hubs, including the USA, UK, Mexico, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Mainland China.
Against the backdrop of ongoing global economic volatility and technological disruption, the research highlighted a common theme: International Financial Centres (IFCs) remain essential to the success of fintech businesses seeking to scale, innovate, and compete globally.
“One thing is crystal clear,” said Elise. “International Financial Centres have a pivotal role to play. As fintech businesses look for jurisdictions that understand their challenges and provide the right tools, infrastructure, and expertise for growth, IFCs like the BVI will remain critical to the industry’s global transformation.”
Elise emphasized the BVI’s distinctive value proposition as a full-service, innovation-driven jurisdiction. She highlighted the Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Act as a landmark framework that sets a new global standard for virtual asset regulation, providing transparency and confidence for investors and operators alike.
“In a world of rapid digital transformation, the BVI continues to stand out as a forward-thinking jurisdiction,” Elise added. “Our blend of innovation, efficiency, and integrity ensures that businesses and investors can thrive in a complex global environment.”
Day two also featured Gary Smith, Partner at Loeb Smith Attorneys, delivering a thought-provoking presentation titled “How is the BVI Changing? Why is it Changing? What will be the Impact for Clients in China?” Gary provided insight into the BVI’s proactive response to global regulatory developments and its unwavering commitment to transparency, compliance, and client confidence.
The evening concluded with an exclusive VIP dinner hosted by BVI Finance, bringing together senior executives and business leaders for an engaging exchange on the BVI Advantage, the jurisdiction’s hallmark combination of innovation, stability, and efficiency.
Celebrating 15 Years of the Outbound Investment Summit
BVI Finance extends its warm congratulations to Matthew Sumner and the team at Outbound Investment on the 15th Anniversary of the Summit. The milestone event not only celebrated the Summit’s continued success but also reinforced its role as a leading platform for fostering global partnerships and investment collaboration.
Special appreciation also goes to Christopher Chan and the Aegis team for their exceptional support in managing the BVI Finance booth, which served as a hub for engagement, insights, and new business connections throughout the event.
The past few weeks have underscored BVI Finance’s mission to engage stakeholders around the world, deepening partnerships, sharing insights, and reinforcing the BVI’s role as a dynamic, forward-looking international financial centre. As global markets evolve, the BVI remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting China’s continued success and to fostering stronger links across the global financial ecosystem.
About BVI Finance
BVI Finance is responsible for protecting and promoting the BVI’s financial services industry. The BVI is renowned as a leading international business and finance centre, offering a robust legal framework, a stable and business-friendly environment, and a strong reputation for regulatory compliance. With its strategic expertise in wealth management, corporate services, trusts, fund administration and digital assets, the BVI continues to attract global businesses, investors and financial professionals to use its products and services.
For further information please contact:
Shamahl A. Smith
Communications and Research Officer
ssmith@bvifinance.vg |Tel: 284-852-1957