Frequently Asked Questions

What is Poolside?

Poolside is a fund-as-a-service platform that helps you establish and manage EU-regulated alternative investment funds. We are a registered and licensed fund management company operating under Estonian regulations, enabling the funds to invest in a wide range of asset classes globally.

What types of assets can the fund invest in?

Poolside funds can invest in stocks, real estate, private equity, web3, vessels, planes, foreign exchange (FX), fund-of-funds (FoFs), and more. The platform supports a broad range of asset classes.

Can the fund invest globally?

Yes, the fund can invest in assets globally across various jurisdictions, offering a truly international scope for investors.

How long does it take to set up a fund with Poolside?

The fund setup process takes between 3-5 days. It’s fully digital, paperless, and does not require regulatory approval or physical presence at board meetings.

Is there a minimum size requirement for the fund?

No, there is no minimum size limit for funds established through Poolside. This flexibility allows fund managers to start with any size and scale as needed, making it ideal for both small and large investment strategies.

Do I need to be physically present in Estonia to establish a fund?

No physical presence is required. The entire fund setup process is fully digital, making it convenient for clients worldwide.

Can non-European investors participate in Poolside funds?

Yes, investors from anywhere in the world, including non-European countries, can participate in the funds.

Can investors from the United States participate in Poolside funds?

Yes, US investors can participate in the funds established through Poolside, provided they comply with applicable regulations.

Who manages the investor registry?

The investor registry is managed by the management company associated with the fund, ensuring compliance and ease of administration.

Can retail investors invest in funds established through Poolside?

Yes, retail investors can invest in such funds. However, the private placement regulation must be followed, ensuring compliance with local legal frameworks and investor protection rules. Poolside assists in managing these compliance requirements, ensuring a smooth process for both fund managers and investors.

Are the fund documentation and the list of fund investors (LPs) public?

No, the fund documentation and the list of fund investors (LPs) are not public. The investor registry is kept confidential and managed securely by the management company. This ensures privacy and compliance with regulatory standards, allowing for discretion in managing investor information.

Where can the fund’s bank account be located?

The initial bank account for the fund is opened in Estonia. However, the fund’s bank account can subsequently be opened and maintained anywhere in the world, offering flexibility for fund managers and investors to choose the most suitable banking location for their needs.

What are the tax benefits of using Poolside?

Poolside funds benefit from look-through tax treatment and are exempt from withholding tax obligations, providing significant tax efficiencies for investors.

Is regulatory approval needed to establish a fund?

No further regulatory approval is required beyond the initial setup. This streamlines the process and reduces delays.

What compliance requirements do Poolside funds need to meet?

Poolside funds comply with EU regulations, ensuring a secure and compliant investment environment. However, it’s important to ensure that fund managers adhere to the regulatory requirements in the jurisdictions where they operate.

What ongoing support does Poolside provide after the fund is established?

Poolside offers ongoing fund administration, compliance, and management services, ensuring your fund remains compliant and efficient.

Does Poolside provide ongoing fund management services after setup?

Yes, Poolside offers comprehensive ongoing management services that include handling investor communications, regulatory compliance, NAV calculations, accounting, and more. The main goal is for clients to not be burdened or concerned with legal and compliance matters, including any changes in regulations. Poolside takes care of all of that, allowing fund managers to focus entirely on their core business activities—investing and attracting investors—while outsourcing the operational and regulatory tasks.

How secure is the Poolside platform?

Poolside follows strict EU regulations and compliance standards, ensuring that your fund and investor data are secure and well-managed.

Can Poolside provide fund management services for clients who already have their own fund setup?

Yes, Poolside offers fund management services even for those who have their own fund structures. This includes managing compliance, onboarding investors, performing due diligence on investments, calculating NAV (Net Asset Value), and handling accounting. Poolside helps streamline these operations, allowing fund managers to focus on growing their investments.

How does Poolside differentiate from other fund service providers?

Poolside stands out by offering extreme flexibility in fund creation and management. Poolside excels in providing tailored, client-specific solutions. It offers a more bespoke experience where every fund is uniquely designed, as well as greater flexibility in fund structure and asset classes. Additionally, Poolside allows for broader investment opportunities and ensures that funds are compliant with EU regulations, which is particularly advantageous for international investors. It also provides the ability to open bank accounts globally and manage a wider range of asset classes, making it an attractive option for investors looking to diversify internationally.

What are the costs involved in setting up a fund?

The cost of establishing a fund with Poolside starts at €9,900. This includes the basic setup of the fund vehicle.