The British Virgin Islands (BVI) has recorded its strongest first quarter for new company incorporations in four years, according to the latest Quarterly Statistical Bulletin published by the BVI Financial Services Commission (FSC).
The figures show that 7,630 new companies were incorporated during the first quarter of 2026, representing a 10.04% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This builds on a broader upward trend, with incorporations 7.63% higher than Q1 2024 and 31.58% higher than Q1 2023.
The results mark the highest first-quarter incorporation figures since 2022 and continue the positive momentum seen across the jurisdiction's financial services sector.
The total number of active companies on the BVI register now stands at 362,165, underlining the jurisdiction's continued attractiveness as a pre-eminent international financial centre.
The report also highlighted strong growth in limited partnership activity, with 154 new limited partnerships formed during the quarter, more than double the number recorded in Q1 2025.
Elise Donovan, CEO of BVI Finance, said: "The latest FSC Quarterly Statistical Bulletin demonstrates the continued strength and resilience of the BVI as an international financial centre. These results reflect a continued confidence in the jurisdiction from businesses, investors and advisers around the world and reinforce the important role the jurisdiction plays in facilitating global investment and cross-border commerce.
“The growth highlighted in this quarter's bulletin reflects continued demand for BVI structures from investors and global business, and notably growing demand in the fintech and digital assets space, demonstrating the breadth and strength of the jurisdiction's offering. At a time when businesses are operating across increasingly complex regulatory and economic environments, the BVI continues to provide the legal certainty, stability and flexibility that international businesses require.”
Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, Minister responsible for Financial Services and Economic Development, said: "The FSC’s results are a clear indication of the continued global demand for BVI financial services and the confidence that international businesses place in our jurisdiction. The growth recorded during the first quarter of 2026 highlights the strength of our regulatory framework, the quality of our professional services industry and the ongoing commitment of the Government and industry stakeholders to ensuring the BVI remains competitive on the global stage.”
In addition to strong company formation activity, the bulletin highlighted continued growth across several areas of the financial services industry, including investment business, virtual asset service providers and fiduciary services, demonstrating the breadth and diversity of the jurisdiction's financial services offering.
The BVI remains one of the world's leading international financial centres, providing innovative, well-regulated structures that support investment, wealth management, funds, fintech and cross-border business activity.
About BVI Finance
BVI Finance is responsible for protecting and promoting the British Virgin Islands’ financial services industry. The BVI is recognised 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 strategic expertise across wealth management, corporate services, trusts, fund administration, and digital assets, the BVI continues to attract global businesses, investors, and financial professionals who use its products and services.
Source: BVI Financial Services Commission Quarterly Statistical Bulletin Q1 2026
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ssmith@bvifinance.vg
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