Question 1

Why set up a private family trust?

Accepted Answer

A discretionary family trust holds and transitions assets across generations, ring-fences them from business and personal liabilities, avoids the cost and delay of probate, and enables structured, tax-efficient succession with clear governance — far more robust than relying on a will alone.

Question 2

Is there an inheritance or estate tax in India?

Accepted Answer

India currently has no estate or inheritance tax. However, succession still raises income-tax, clubbing, stamp-duty and FEMA issues, and the absence of a tax does not remove the need for clear, dispute-proof transfer structures — which is what estate planning provides.

Question 3

What does a family office actually do?

Accepted Answer

A family office consolidates a family's investment management, accounting and tax, succession, philanthropy, governance and next-generation education under one structure — single-family or multi-family. We help design the operating model, governance and reporting, and run the finance and compliance function.

Question 4

How are private trusts taxed in India?

Accepted Answer

A specific (determinate) trust is generally taxed in the hands of the trustee at the rates applicable to the beneficiaries, while a discretionary trust is taxed at the maximum marginal rate unless it qualifies for relief. The settlor's intent, beneficiary class and source of income all drive the outcome — we structure to optimise it.

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