Increasing Number of Wealthy Americans Pursuing Passports Abroad – CNBC
According to CNBC, citing immigration experts, an increasing number of wealthy Americans are considering relocating overseas. Read Full Article at RT.com.
The news outlet indicated that immigration attorneys and consultants have witnessed an unprecedented surge in clients seeking second passports or expat living arrangements.
While discussions about relocating after elections are common, many wealthy individuals are taking definitive steps toward that goal.
Dominic Volek, head of the private clients group at Henley & Partners, noted that at least 30% more high-income Americans are planning to exit this year compared to last year. Volek shared with CNBC that wealthy Americans now represent the largest client demographic for his firm, accounting for a minimum of 20% of its business, surpassing clients from any other nationality.
David Lesperance, managing partner of Lesperance and Associates—an international tax and immigration firm—remarked that the number of Americans seeking his guidance on overseas relocation has approximately tripled compared to last year.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a growing number of affluent Americans have been evaluating the prospect of moving abroad. The impending election has heightened their interest, according to Lesperance. Most are exploring options in Europe, particularly in Portugal, Malta, Greece, Spain, and Italy, as per Henley & Partners.
An October survey conducted by Arton Capital, which advises wealthy individuals on immigration options, and featured on the financial news site Quartz, revealed that 53% of American millionaires are now more inclined to leave the U.S. after the election, regardless of the victor. Among younger millionaires, particularly those aged 18 to 29, 64% expressed a "very interested" sentiment in acquiring golden visas, which allow investors to reside in select European countries.
The survey highlighted a growing fatigue with political divisions among Americans at home. Armand Arton, founder of Arton Capital, explained in a statement, as quoted by Quartz, that “many are now looking to hedge their bets and secure a ‘plan B’ residence overseas, regardless of the outcome of the election.” With just two days remaining until Election Day, the polls indicate a tighter race than ever.
In related news, Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris are in a deadlock in crucial battleground states, with polls showing neither candidate has a lead greater than two points.
In the traditionally Democratic stronghold known as the ‘Blue Wall,’ which includes Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, the margin is less than one point. However, a significant political shift might be underway in Iowa—a state Trump won in both 2016 and 2020—where a credible Des Moines Register-Mediacom poll suggests Harris is ahead by three points, 47-44.
According to the University of Florida’s Election Lab, over 75 million ballots have already been cast in early voting.
Olivia Brown contributed to this report for TROIB News