Middle East Tensions Test the Markets across all sectors - or do they ?
Global markets are currently navigating a volatile mix of slowing economic growth and rising energy costs. With US Q4 2025 GDP revised down to 0.7% and Middle East tensions pushing Brent crude above $103, consumer sentiment is under significant pressure.
The concept of multi-jurisdictional holding structures is not new, but the pace at which international families and corporate groups are adopting them has accelerated considerably since 2023. Tightening reporting obligations under OECD frameworks, combined with increased domestic tax scrutiny in major economies, have prompted advisors to recommend a more layered approach to corporate architecture.
Energy Surge
Brent crude climbed 11.33% to close at $103.89 as regional instability continue to impact global supply.
“A well-designed multi-jurisdictional structure is no longer just a tax tool — it is a risk management strategy for the modern world.”
Growth Deceleration: US economic growth slowed sharply, reflected in the downward revision of Q4 2025 GDP to 0.7%.
Equity Retreat: Major indices faced continued pressure, with the S&P 500 falling 1.60% and the Nasdaq 100 retreating 1.06%.
Rising Yields: Bond yields surged globally; the US 10-Year yield rose 14.9 basis points to 4.282%.
Digital Asset Resilience: Despite macro stress, Bitcoin showed notable resilience, briefly testing the $74,000 resistance zone with $583 million in weekly ETF inflows.
Market Sentiment: The Fear & Greed Index currently sits at 22 (Extreme Fear).
Alternative Investment Markets
Gold: continues to its fixed rates of 10% - 20% p.a.
Litigation Funding: stays strong in a market that is not subject to external events and remains on course to deliver assured returns of 15% - 25% p.a.
Our advisory team at Glenmuir International works with clients to design bespoke multi-layered structures that align with their commercial objectives, family dynamics, and long-term succession & investment goals. The key is ensuring each layer serves a genuine commercial purpose — not merely a tax function — to withstand regulatory scrutiny.
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