Welcome to an exclusive interview with the trailblazers behind RIF Trust, the expert investment migration specialists. In this one-on-two, we meet Mimoun A. Assraoui, the CEO, and David Regueiro, the Chief Operating Officer. Find out where RIF Trust in particular and the Residency and Citizenship by Investment industry, in general, are at, and where they’re going.
Mimoun A. Assraoui, CEO:
Over the years, RIF Trust has established itself as one of the outstanding performers in the world of investment migration. What new developments in the field of Residency and Citizenship by Investment have caught your eye and how are you adapting to these changes?
The impending Caribbean Citizenship by Investment price increase, while not entirely unexpected, still grabbed the attention of everybody in the industry. On Sunday, June 30, 2024, the minimum investment will effectively double from $100,000 to $200,000. We are positive about the rise, as it fits into our ethos of quality over quantity. Investment migration is not a mass-market product but a discerning one, with prestigious HNWIs our key market.
RIF Trust has taken centre stage in providing citizenship and residency solutions. Could you share any testimonials that illustrate the way you can change a person’s life?
I’ve enhanced my global mobility by investing in a St Lucia citizenship. Despite being raised in France, I was born in Morocco and am now based in Dubai. The Barkleys are a family who escaped the violence of South Africa to reside in the altogether more peaceful Malta. Indian entrepreneur Ranjit Roy has a less hectic time at airports now, thanks to his St Kitts and Nevis passport.
RIF Trust has undoubtedly made a defining impression on the lives of its clients through citizenship and residency services. How do you extend its commitment to social responsibility beyond its core services? Can you talk about any initiatives or partnerships aimed at giving back to communities or supporting charitable causes?
Sure. Residency and Citizenship by Investment helps fund social projects. The less advantaged members of society benefit from this foreign direct investment. Every year, we embrace the spirit of giving back during Ramadan. In 2024, in collaboration with Sharjah Charity International, we distributed 1,000+ meals to the underprivileged.
Looking beyond traditional Citizenship and Residency by Investment, what other areas or sectors do you see RIF Trust expanding into? How does the company plan to broaden its offerings while maintaining its reputation for excellence in investment migration?
We recently launched Latitude World Properties. This represents a foray into real estate. These properties make an excellent investment in themselves. But they are also a gateway to a golden visa or a Plan B passport.
David Regueiro, Chief Operating Officer:
As the COO of RIF Trust, you oversee the operational side of the business. How has technology played a role in streamlining processes and enhancing the client experience within RIF Trust?
In 2023, we completely redesigned our website. Users now experience a smoother site that is easy to navigate. In terms of client support, we have become more computerized and efficient. However, we will never lose that human touch. We continue to welcome clients to our offices as well as accommodate remote enquiries.
Clients are pushed away from the status quote and pulled in to looking into investment migration by a combination of factors. These include geopolitical conditions and economic developments. How does RIF Trust stay alert to these emerging trends?
2024 is famously the Year of Elections. We know that the results may trigger interest in Residency and Citizenship by Investment. What we do is advise clients ahead of time. It’s never too early to plan for the future, after all.
Building and maintaining close relationships with clients is essential in the service industry. How does RIF Trust prioritize customer satisfaction and ensure that each client receives personalized attention and support throughout their journey?
Many of our staff have acquired a new residency or second citizenship. So they can use their first-hand experience to guide applicants to the various programmes. Our case-processing team is on top of all the latest eligibility requirements, as countries are liable to change them. They will keep you informed about the progress of your application.
Global expansion often comes with its own set of logistical and operational hurdles. How does RIF Trust overcome the complexities of operating in diverse geographical locations while maintaining consistent service quality and compliance standards? Are there any best practices that have proven effective in managing operations across borders?
We regularly meet as a company online. Despite the time differences, we know that we are a united team. Convening at international industry events gives management a chance to catch up in person. But we are in communication with each other at all times.