Private Interest Foundation (PIF)

The core of asset protection in Escudo Patrimonial Global 360.

The Panamanian Private Interest Foundation (PIF) is a unique legal entity specifically designed for asset protection and estate planning. Unlike a traditional corporation, it has no owners or shareholders; instead, it has a founder, a foundation council, and beneficiaries.

Protection against Lawsuits and Creditors

One of the greatest appeals of the PIF is its legal robustness. By law, assets transferred to the Foundation constitute a separate estate from the founder's personal estate. This means they are unattachable and do not respond for personal obligations of the founder or beneficiaries, unless fraud against creditors is proven and the lawsuit is filed within 3 years following the asset transfer.

Difference from a Corporation (S.A.)

• Purpose: An S.A. is designed for commercial, for-profit activities. A PIF is designed for holding, protecting, and distributing wealth.
• Ownership: An S.A. issues shares and has owners (shareholders). A PIF has no owners; it is governed by a Private Regulation in favor of its beneficiaries.
• Privacy: In a PIF, the document designating heirs (Regulation) is 100% private and is not inscribed in the Public Registry.
• Succession: The PIF allows for automatic wealth transfer upon the founder's death, avoiding costly and lengthy probate processes.