Why Choose the APEX Portugal Bond?

Not all Portuguese-compliant investment bonds are created equal. While many share similar tax benefits, the APEX Portugal Bond from Utmost International distinguishes itself with features that matter most to British expats living in Portugal or planning to relocate again.

Here’s how it compares:

1. Superior Investment Flexibility

  • Access to a broader range of funds than most competitors—including mutual funds, ETFs, investment trusts, REITs, and individual shares.

  • Discretionary fund management available, allowing tailored portfolio strategies with active oversight.

  • Tax-free internal switches allow investors to adapt quickly to market conditions without triggering tax liabilities.

2. Multi-Currency Advantage

Unlike many competitors limited to EUR, APEX supports:

  • EUR, GBP, USD, and CHF

  • Perfect for international investors looking to hedge currency risk or retain access to their home currency

3. Portability for the Globally Mobile

  • APEX is designed for expats, and can be restructured for UK tax compliance if the client moves back.

  • Few other bonds offer this level of cross-border continuity, especially with UK-compatible segments prebuilt into the policy.

4. Backed by Irish Regulation

  • Issued by Utmost PanEurope dac, APEX is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland under Solvency II, ensuring:

    • Segregated client funds

    • Transparent compliance

    • Full EU passporting rights

  • This Irish domicile is key to securing Portugal’s favourable 28% tax rate, avoiding the 35% blacklisted jurisdiction penalty.

5. Estate Planning Built In

  • APEX allows named beneficiaries, avoiding probate and Portuguese stamp duty.

  • Death benefits are paid directly, bypassing forced heirship and creating a clean, private wealth transfer mechanism.

6. Tax Efficiency That Improves Over Time

Few other compliant solutions combine tax deferral, preferential holding-period rates, and estate benefits in one unified structure.

7. Better Than Bank and Local Options

  • Local bank products: Limited fund access, EUR-only, often high fees

  • Direct investment accounts: No tax deferral, no succession benefits

  • Golden Visa & AIFs: High complexity, lower liquidity, and limited estate planning

Summary: APEX at a Glance 

Final Verdict

For British expatriates in Portugal seeking a compliant, tax-efficient, and flexible investment solution—with optional UK compatibility—the APEX Portugal Bond is not only compliant, but arguably the best-in-class option on the market.

Important Information

This content is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Horizon Associates does not offer investment recommendations without a full understanding of the client’s individual circumstances and location.

Before any advice is given, Horizon will conduct a detailed fact-find and client suitability assessment in accordance with regulatory requirements and international Know Your Client (KYC) obligations.

Investment suitability, tax treatment, and planning strategies may vary significantly depending on personal residency, domicile status, asset profile, and long-term objectives. You should not act on any information contained herein without seeking professional advice tailored to your specific situation.