When we hear the word “tax,” what often comes to mind are figures in reports and government forms. Yet behind those numbers lies a long and complex journey, where taxes have served as a bridge between authority and society. This interaction first took shape in the earliest empires, where managing resources became central to governance. Since then, the history of tax has reflected humanity’s pursuit of structure and accountability, shaping the relationship between rulers and the people. At its origin, the historical background of taxation leads us deep into the ancient world, long before coins and currency were in circulation. In Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Sumer, people paid taxes in kind, offering grain, animals, or labor. These early contributions supported armies, temples, and rulers, emerging alongside the first organized states. The act of taxation was seen as necessary to control and distribute shared resources. Such demands often sparked resistance, encouraging the formation of legal standards. The Code of Hammurabi, for example, included rules for contributions and penalties for avoiding them. This shows how the history of tax is closely tied to the development of law itself. Taxes became one of the first tensions between power and population, revealing society’s growing concern for fairness and balance. When discussing taxation in ancient Rome, one cannot overlook the sophistication of its system. The Romans managed both direct and indirect levies, such as head taxes, land taxes, and various customs duties. These mechanisms financed everything from military campaigns to roads, aqueducts, and public events. A distinctive feature of taxation in ancient Rome was the use of private agents, known as “publicani”. These individuals collected taxes in the provinces after paying a fixed amount to the state upfront. In return, they kept a portion of what they gathered. This method, though flawed and prone to abuse, marked an early effort to streamline fiscal operations across vast territories. As part of the historical background of taxation, it highlights humanity’s efforts to balance efficiency and oversight in public finance. Unlike Rome’s structured empire, taxation in ancient Greece reflected the diversity of city-states and their approaches to finance. In Athens, for instance, most citizens were exempt from regular taxes but contributed through voluntary donations called liturgies, which funded theater, festivals, or naval equipment. In times of war or crisis, special levies were introduced. This illustrates how taxation in ancient Greece was deeply linked to civic pride and public responsibility, forming another vital thread in the fabric of the historical background of taxation. In medieval Europe, the history of tax reveals how monarchies and religious institutions shared control over financial obligations. Taxation often carried a spiritual weight, as both church and state collected levies such as the tithe. The system imposed unequal burdens, with commoners contributing more heavily than the nobility.

Anyone who has ever considered opening a bank account or registering a company abroad has likely encountered the mysterious acronym KYC. At first glance, these three letters may seem intimidating, as though you are about to be interrogated. However, once you understand what they represent, it becomes clear there’s no reason to be afraid. KYC, what is it? In simple terms, it is a routine part of bank regulatory compliance, something clients should approach calmly and without anxiety. KYC stands for “know your customer”, a principle that constitutes a cornerstone of modern bank regulatory compliance. Financial institutions are required to collect basic information about their clients and verify its accuracy. They are not doing this arbitrarily, but in accordance with international law aimed at transparency and risk prevention. KYC regulations are primarily the bank’s responsibility, not the client's. The institution must confirm it is working with a real person and that the source of funds is legitimate. On the clients’ side, all they need is to provide accurate information and answer honestly. If you fill out the KYC forms truthfully and attach the necessary documentation, you are fulfilling your part. To sum up, by entering clean and clear data, the process typically stays smooth and quick. Answering the question "KYC, what is it in practice?", is much like introducing yourself. Identification, proof of address, employment, or business details are generally sufficient. The list of required documents may vary depending on the bank, but the principle remains the same. When completing the KYC forms, it’s best to avoid embellishments because, if you simply state the truth, it’s unlikely that the bank will find a reason to decline your application. Most clients never see how the process unfolds internally. In the world of bank regulatory compliance, dedicated teams review your data, compare it with international databases, and evaluate the logic behind your financial profile. This isn’t a test you can fail; it’s a procedural step. You are simply the starting point, and the burden of meeting KYC regulations rests fully with the bank. When you choose a bank, you aren’t treated as a suspect; you are welcomed as a client, and banks want you to feel secure. The entire structure of modern financial services is built on a foundation of respect for the client, even when strict rules must be followed. At the end of the day, strict compliance helps us all because it discourages crooks, money launderers, and criminals. Many clients approach this with uncertainty and ask what KYC regulations entail and how they should prepare. The answer is reassuring; if you are transparent and open about the origin of your funds, there’s no reason for concern. The financial world values honest transactions and reliable people. If that describes you, know your customer protocols will not stand in your way. In today’s world, bank regulatory compliance relies on transparency. It’s a measure that protects both financial institutions and their clients.

In our constant search for the best services to assist perpetual travelers and international investors, we’ve come very close to reputable and experienced asset managers and family office providers. We learn quite a great deal through these interactions, yet the most important thing is the ability to offer their services to our readers. This article is about investment, most importantly about what is an omnibus account and what drawbacks it can represent. Like we always say at Mundo: leaving your affairs in the hands of the experts doesn't mean that you shouldn't be as informed as possible about financial instruments. This entails how they work and how they can help or harm a portfolio. The word “omnibus” refers to something that’s done or addressed jointly. In some countries, the word is used to describe concepts that are not at all related to finances, for example, as a synonym for “bus”. With the concept of omnibus explained, it's not that hard to guess what is an omnibus account or omnibus investment. Such an approach is based on pooling together assets from different players and managing them under one sole name. In general, they are legally under the name of the brokerage company. When it comes to advantages, an omnibus account has many. One is the anonymity that comes from having your assets under someone else's name, and the other is related to straightforwardness. In this regard, an omnibus account is much easier and less costly when it comes to management. The brokers can streamline processes by operating with the assets collectively rather than individually. In some cases, this may translate into lower fees as well. Even so, before entering an omnibus investment, we should consider its potential issues. Once we've established what is an omnibus account and understood its essence, we're one step away from comprehending its warning flags. What you earn in flexibility, you lose in other aspects, like safety. A pool is a pool, hence, it encompasses strengths and weaknesses, benefits, and also liabilities. Your investment will be linked to those of others and under the brokerage's name. If the company goes bankrupt, there goes your capital. This level of risk is not found when a broker handles all assets directly under the clients’ name. Another potential threat is the misuse of the omnibus account. Unfortunately, many investment companies set up an omnibus account and take leverage on their clients' instruments, which constitutes a high-risk move. The concept of family office has existed since Rockefeller, a symbol of great wealth, entrusted the administration of his investments to a person he relied on. Since then, our knowledge of finances has advanced, we have enhanced tools and better connectivity, but the essence remains the same. Mundo has partnered with a family office service provider mainly constituted by former bankers with high expertise in investment and connections to exclusive institutions.

When looking for a secure and well-regulated jurisdiction for international business, Guernsey presents a strong and compelling option. With an independent legal framework and a reputation built through decades of consistent policy, this island has earned the trust of global professionals. In this article, we’ll explore why establishing a Guernsey company might be the right step for your international growth. Where is Guernsey? Even without being part of the United Kingdom or the European Union, Guernsey maintains legal stability and predictability. This makes it particularly appealing for entrepreneurs and investors who prioritize clarity and independence in business regulation. It is a self-governing jurisdiction with a legal system rooted in English common law, refined over centuries to serve its own needs. With strong regulatory practices and a firm commitment to transparency, Guernsey is recognized globally as a jurisdiction that values integrity. It offers an environment where businesses can operate with assurance and build long-term strategies in a well-organized commercial setting. Setting up a company in Guernsey is a smooth and efficient process thanks to the expertise of local professionals who offer comprehensive support from the very beginning. These providers assist with administrative structuring and continue to offer guidance as the business evolves. Because services are designed around each client's specific objectives and aligned with international standards, entrepreneurs can establish their companies with confidence and clarity, knowing the process is both strategic and seamless. Operating under Guernsey law, service providers deliver structured legal support that accompanies a business at every stage of its development. This ongoing guidance ensures that procedures remain transparent, and expectations are clearly outlined from the start. Such consistency and clarity are particularly valuable in cross-border environments, where navigating multiple legal systems requires a cooperative and reliable approach. Situated between the United Kingdom and France, Guernsey enjoys convenient access to major European markets. Its political environment is known for long-standing stability and a consistent legal landscape, creating favorable conditions for long-term business planning. If you're considering entering the EU market, Mundo also offers company registration in Malta. Guernsey’s strong reputation has been built through consistent performance rather than promotional slogans. This results-driven approach is reflected in how clients are treated with respect, professionalism, and adherence to well-established rules. Such a business culture fosters long-term partnerships and reduces administrative friction, offering entrepreneurs a dependable environment for managing international operations. Choosing the right foundation for a global business begins with a jurisdiction.

In today’s global environment, where stability, confidentiality, and long-term planning are crucial for international investors, the Latin America and Caribbean regions offer a unique mix of geographical, legal, and financial advantages. These destinations are becoming more appealing to those seeking adaptable and reliable strategies for business, personal investments, or asset management. Before diving into the details, it’s important to understand the difference between Latin America and Caribbean jurisdictions, both geographically and functionally. The Latin America and Caribbean regions span from Mexico to Argentina, including the island nations of the Caribbean Sea. For instance, Panama enjoys a distinctive location with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Its capital, Panama City, lies on the Pacific coast, where most of the country’s infrastructure is based. Thanks to its geography, Panama acts as a gateway not only to the Latin America and Caribbean markets but also to international business corridors. On the other hand, countries like Saint Lucia and Nevis are situated in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, each with specific legal frameworks and jurisdictional features. The key difference between Latin America and Caribbean regions lies in their legal traditions and banking practices. Latin American jurisdictions often operate under civil law, reflecting European legal heritage. Caribbean jurisdictions, however, tend to follow the common law system, offering enhanced flexibility and confidentiality for asset structuring. In this article, Panama is considered a representative of Latin America because it’s not exclusively a Caribbean jurisdiction, and because it's part of the continent. Its stable legal system, remote registration options, and lack of physical presence requirements make it highly appealing for global entrepreneurs, especially as a corporate jurisdiction. The incorporation process is simple and does not require excessive documentation, allowing for a fast and seamless company setup. In this section, we focus on Nevis as a representative of the Caribbean region, highlighting its advantages for corporate structuring. Nevis provides quick and uncomplicated company formation while offering streamlined structures, low administrative burdens, and solid legal protection. With the support of specialists, the incorporation process can become as simple and fast as possible. As mentioned earlier, Panama holds a unique position. Though geographically situated in the Latin America, Caribbean zone and bordering the Caribbean Sea, Panama is culturally and geographically closer to Latin America. While many global banks require residency to open an account, and obtaining it often involves complex and lengthy procedures, Panama makes the process significantly easier. Its residency programs are clear, accessible, and faster than in most other countries.

In the world we live in, we can’t forget about sustainability. When purchasing real estate, one usually analyses ROI, location, comfort, and personal tastes. Nevertheless, choosing sustainable developments is highly beneficial in many aspects. An EDGE recognition is a certification that states sustainability. It must demonstrate higher energy efficiency in a building, as well as a smart use of resources. Short for “Excellence In Design For Greater Efficiencies”, these sustainable developments bring advantages both in the short and the long term. To obtain one of these recognitions, the developer must register, and an EDGE auditor will visit the premises. If you're wondering about the exact parameters taken into account to include a building in the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies initiative, it will help to meet some conditions. In essence, it must prove to have a reduced use of energy in comparison with other local places, and this reduction must be at least 20%. The EDGE recognition is one of the initiatives encompassed by the GBCI, or Green Business Certification Inc. With almost 20 years of operations, this is an independent entity that verifies parameters according to green uses accepted globally. Thus, it encourages innovation and green construction in the real estate sector. Besides the above-mentioned one, they oversee others as well. While LEED supports green construction comprehensively, others are focused on sustainable landscaping endeavors regardless of whether they have a building or not. Another one takes green construction beyond, also considering people's comfort, health, and quality of living. Finally, Parksmart is focused on energy-efficient parks featuring improved lighting and ventilation. It's worth noting that an investment of these characteristics doesn't have to end in green construction. Investing in teak land, for example, contributes to the reforestation of forests in Panama, and at the same time, it opens a path to residency. The EDGE status is available in most countries, and several complexes around the world have already obtained an EDGE recognition. You can find them in many cities across India and Mexico, and also in Sao Paulo, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lima, Istanbul, Quito, and Shanghai. By reducing carbon release and spending less energy and water, we not only reduce the harm we do to the planet, an energy-efficient building means fewer expenses for the investor or the dweller. Panama is known for having an outstanding real estate offer. Its prices for high-end projects in the best locations are unbelievable, providing the international investor with excellent living and rental opportunities. The presence of sustainable developments in the country makes the picture even better for those who choose Panama as their next real estate aim. The Qualified Investor Program provides direct access to permanent residency.

Welcome to another piece in which we explore the topics that interest the international businessperson. Of all these topics, investments are some of the most complicated, both to understand and put into action. This is where we see the benefits of a financial advisor. They can be truly lifesavers as they can provide valuable insights, give advice on the most suitable vehicles, and assess results. Yet there's a service that goes beyond financial advising, and this is what we want to introduce you to today. When we mention words like family office, financial advisor, and so on, it’s important to comprehend what each means and how they can help. The benefits of hiring a financial advisor are many because the individual or the family will have an expert to help them pinpoint the best investment opportunities. Besides, they will manage, monitor, and change them if necessary. They can do what otherwise may be a burden to you. A good financial advisor will relieve you of conducting research, studying the market's behavior, and following up with your investment results every day. Moreover, one of the benefits of hiring a financial advisor is that they know how different vehicles work. Now, what happens when your family has a large structure of assets, brokerage accounts, companies, valuables, and so on? This is when a family office financial advisor can be the right answer. The first thing we need to understand is that these are not opposite concepts. Financial advising is the core of family office, but here the service is amplified to provide broader solutions. A family office service is a 360° approach that will accompany you every step of the way. From mapping the family's assets to opening accounts and gearing specially tailored strategies, a family office financial advisor truly takes care of the family's wealth. Thus, it helps it grow safely and according to the family's goals. Luckily, Mundo has connected with a family office financial advisor company that has been registered in the Republic of Panama since 2007. Being former bankers with plenty of expertise, their company is fully regulated and duly licensed to give the clients best-in-class services. Among the benefits of hiring a financial advisor, efficiency is key. At the end of the day, you want results, someone who can do the heavy lifting while you focus on your core business only. This is exactly what you'll get with Mundo’s family office financial advisor services. Family office dates back to the late 19th century. Names like Rockefeller enter the picture as, at the time, he was one of the wealthiest men in the United States. He owned different companies and was part of investment pools, actually, he was one of the owners of America's first billion-dollar company. Nevertheless, his affairs were a mess, and he was isolated.

In today’s world, where privacy, strategic thinking, and resilience are essential in wealth management, high-net-worth families are increasingly exploring custom-tailored solutions. What is a family office? It’s a solution in a format that combines experience, system-based strategies, and access to rare opportunities not available in traditional financial institutions. But what does this really mean? What doors can it open for investors working with trusted partners? That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this article. Choosing a reliable wealth management partner begins with reputation. Our trusted advisors, operating under the principles of what is a family office, have been established and working under regulatory supervision since 2007. This represents nearly two decades of legal clarity, financial resilience, and strategic growth. Their experience is demonstrated through numbers, successful case studies, and adaptive investment strategies that support long-term financial stability. A truly personalized approach is only possible when the team understands the full picture. Knowing what is a family office is understanding how its professionals work side by side with clients to define long-term goals, plan asset transfers to future generations, and manage business ownership structures. This creates a unified strategy designed for the present and the future. Many of the world’s most reputable financial institutions are not accessible to the general public. Applying is not for anyone who walks through the door because these institutions only work with clients who meet the highest standards. Our partners, specialists in what is a family office and how to implement it, have the right network and experience and can introduce clients to financial opportunities that are not available to the wider public. When working with the team that offers these exclusive services, clients receive a comprehensive experience. This means you don’t need to worry about whether to open a brokerage account online or in person, or what paperwork is required. Our partners take care of the entire process quickly, confidentially, and keeping your goals in mind. You can read more about these challenges in our related article on financial services in the US and Puerto Rico. The ability to avoid the need to open a brokerage account online is not just a convenience; it’s a strategic advantage. The company will take care of all the processes for you, and all you have to do is fill out the forms and provide accurate data. Unlike bank representatives who are often tied to specific products, independent consultants—those who understand what is a family office — operate solely in the client’s best interests. They analyze the entire market and choose financial instruments. 

When it comes to managing company funds, a personal bank account can no longer support the scale and structure of modern operations. A clear and reliable financial foundation becomes essential, which is why many entrepreneurs begin searching for the best bank to open a business account. This type of account supports sustainable growth and operational clarity. A personal account is designed to handle private expenses and savings; hence, it does not suit business activities. Entrepreneurs sometimes start out using personal banking, but as transactions increase, the need for a separate business structure becomes clear. This is when choosing from the best banks for a business account becomes an important decision. A business account is meant for registered legal entities because it captures all inflows from clients, outgoing payments, taxes, payroll, and other business-related operations. With this tool, business owners can maintain financial transparency and avoid blending personal assets with commercial ones. Using a personal account for business payments may cause issues with the financial institution, leading to blocked transactions or questions regarding compliance. On the other hand, finding the best bank to open a business account is vital to make sure the company operates within legal and financial regulations. Furthermore, some banks provide services tailored to commercial needs, like connections to virtual wallets. To apply for a business account, companies must verify their structure, ownership, and operational goals. Typically, this includes registration certificates, ownership records, and a business profile. In many cases, you’ll be asked to declare what cash flow will be passing through your account, i.e., the approximate amount of the incoming and outgoing transactions. Clear documentation allows institutions to follow anti-money laundering policies, whereas, for clients, preparing this information in advance increases the likelihood of success, especially when working with the most reliable institutions. Banks evaluate business owners and executives before granting access to corporate banking. For this, they look at the client’s track record, the nature of the business, and its activity. Presenting a well-structured profile helps build trust, therefore, those seeking the easiest business bank account to open often benefit from showing projected revenues and customer profiles. Every company has its own financial rhythm and geographic reach; this is why the best banks for a business account are those that align with your needs. Consider the strength of digital services, the responsiveness of customer support, and the bank’s understanding of your industry because these elements can directly affect how efficiently your company operates.

The world is vast and full of wonders. Some places dazzle with breathtaking scenery, others captivate with cultural depth, and many become sanctuaries for those seeking a new beginning. In this article, we will not debate the best country in the world. Every destination offers something unique. Instead, let’s explore the globe by theme, from ancient mysteries to modern havens for expatriates. Get ready to uncover the best countries to travel to for every kind of journey. When it comes to ancient enigmas, Egypt holds a special allure. The majestic pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor stand as monuments echoing across millennia. Egypt opens a gateway into the world of pharaohs, priests, and eternal secrets. For those drawn to heritage, Egypt is undeniably among the most cultural places in the world. While Egypt preserves the East’s legacy, Mexico immerses travelers in the mystique of the Americas. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Palenque, the pyramids of Teotihuacan, and the lush Yucatán jungles reveal a vivid past. Anyone fascinated by Mayan culture and ancient spirituality will recognize Mexico as one of the most cultural places in the world and a destination full of wonder. Panama is considered one of the best countries to travel to, particularly for those planning to relocate. Its tropical weather, stable economy, attractive tax framework, high-quality healthcare, and luxury real estate continue to draw expatriates from all over the globe. Panama offers a balanced lifestyle where urban energy meets serene nature. Therefore, anyone looking for the best country in the world to live comfortably should consider Panama as a top contender. Portugal steadily earns its place as one of the best countries to travel to, especially for those starting a new chapter. It offers pleasant weather, safety, developed infrastructure, and a welcoming spirit across its cities. Those who dream of blending European quality with peaceful rhythms will find Portugal a compelling option when searching for the best country in the world for a tranquil life. While Portugal has a residency by investment program, Mundo recommends Panama because it offers the same lifestyle, more opportunities, and lower costs. For travelers in search of cultural richness, Russia is one of the most cultural places in the world. In nearly every big city, you’ll find philharmonic orchestras, drama theaters, opera houses, ballet, and even puppet theaters. The depth and accessibility of cultural institutions are deeply rooted in the national identity, which makes Russia a must-visit for those who seek artistic inspiration and generational heritage. The United States offers an extraordinary range of cultural experiences. Broadway theaters in New York create a landscape full of creative expression.