Innovation and tech – hot topics for Jersey real estate funds

Jersey's pragmatic approach to investment structures using blockchain and willingness to embrace technology in compliance checks mean the island is achieving its ambition to be the easiest international finance centre to do business with in a digital world.

That's the view of Ogier counsel Sophie Reguengo, a Jersey real estate funds specialist, who says the key themes for real estate clients right now, reflected at the world's largest real estate conference – MIPIM – earlier this year, are innovation and technology.

Sophie said: "We're hearing from clients with investors demanding more liquidity and flexibility in their real estate portfolios and from tech providers with innovative Blockchain solutions.

"In Jersey we have seen a pragmatic approach from our regulator when it comes to investment structures using blockchain technology to record the beneficial ownership of shares in Jersey companies.

"It is also encouraging to be having frank conversions with the regulator about modern approaches to collect CDD/KYC documentation from investors, such as the use of video calls and electronic signatures."

The reason for this, she says, stems from Jersey's ambition is to be the easiest international finance centre to do business with in a digital world.

"We are seeking to achieve this by having proactive regulation, supportive government policies, a robust digital infrastructure and digital talent," said Sophie.

Sophie is an experienced investment funds and regulatory lawyer with over 15 years of industry experience. Recognised as a "Rising Star" by IFLR1000 and a "Next Generation Lawyer" by Legal 500, Sophie focuses on private equity and real estate structures.