Utmost International: Apex Portuguese Compliant Bond
Utmost International: Apex Portuguese Compliant Bond
The Utmost International Apex Portuguese Compliant Bond, or simply the Apex Bond, is a single premium, unit-linked life insurance policy launched in 2020, by Utmost PanEurope. Designed specifically for expatriates living in Portugal—especially Non-Habitual Residents (NHR) and Golden Visa holders—this bond offers a tax-efficient and flexible way to preserve or grow your wealth over the medium to long term (five years or more). Whether you’re looking to secure your financial future or build capital, the Apex Bond combines life insurance with investment opportunities tailored to expat needs.
Why It Works for Expats
Issued by an Irish insurer under the strict Solvency II regulations, the Apex Bond offers strong investor protection and exceptional flexibility for expats with international lifestyles. It’s designed with portability in mind—perfect if you’re planning a return to the UK or a move elsewhere—and includes comprehensive succession planning to ensure your beneficiaries, no matter where they are in the world, are well covered.
One of its biggest strengths is its investment flexibility: you get access to an extensive range of funds, an easy-to-use investment platform, and the option to appoint a discretionary investment manager to tailor your portfolio. Whether you prefer hands-on control or expert guidance, this bond lets you customize your investments to match your financial goals and risk comfort, making it a standout choice for those needing a solution that keeps pace with their global moves.
Estate Planning & Tax Efficiency
The Apex Bond is highly effective for estate planning. Policy holders can nominate beneficiaries to transfer wealth free of Portuguese Stamp Tax, regardless of kinship. With multiple policy segments, it optimises succession planning and can align with UK tax strategies.
Its Irish domicile ensures VAT-free fees, while capital gains and income grow tax-deferred—only taxed on withdrawal (28% initially, dropping to 11.2% after eight years). (Learn more about Portuguese-compliant bond tax benefits here.)
Is the Utmost Apex Bond right for me?
This bond is only available through financial advisers. It’s diverse investment options is ideal for sophisticated investors seeking tax efficiency, flexibility, and estate planning benefits. It suits those comfortable with a €100,000 minimum investment and a strategic approach to fund selection, offering access to a broad range of EU-compliant funds tailored to individual risk profiles.
Backed by Utmost, the Apex Bond stands out for its portability, multi-currency options, and tax-advantaged structure, making it an effective structure for higher-net-worth expatriates navigating Portugal’s tax system
Key Features & Benefits
Proven Security
Utmost PanEurope, based in Ireland, ensures robust protection under Solvency II with ring-fenced assets.
Tax-Efficient Growth
No annual tax reporting; gains taxed only on withdrawal, dropping from 28% to 11.2% after eight years.
Flexible Investment Options
Access a wide range of EU-compliant funds, with the option to appoint a Discretionary Fund Manager.
Estate Planning Benefits
Nominate beneficiaries for seamless wealth transfer; up to 9,999 segments for succession or tax planning.
Investor Protection
Backed by a reputable Irish insurer with a focus on policyholder security.
Multi-Currency Options
Available in EUR, GBP, USD, and CHF.
Portable Design
Ideal for expats with cross-border lifestyles.
Considerations
Conclusion
The Utmost International Apex Portuguese Compliant Bond is an excellent choice for expats in Portugal seeking a tax-efficient, flexible, and secure investment vehicle. While it demands a higher initial investment and thoughtful fund management, its adaptability, estate planning advantages, and tax-deferred growth make it ideal for sophisticated investors prioritising wealth preservation and cross-border planning.
If you’re new to Portugal, a Non-Habitual Resident, or holding an existing Utmost policy, contact me for a portfolio review from a fully EU-qualified, licensed financial planner using the form below.
Written by Henry Kent, Independent Financial Adviser at Holborn Assets, based in Portugal. With over Eleven years advising expats across Europe,