Michaël Khayat speaks at the IBA London Conference (1–3 March 2026)
From 1 to 3 March 2026, Arkwood had the pleasure of taking part in the 31st Annual International Private Client Tax Conference, hosted in London by the International Bar Association (IBA). The 2026 theme — “Private wealth seeking shelter and opportunity alike” — brought together leading practitioners from around the world to discuss the latest developments in international private client and tax matters.
Our partner Michaël Khayat spoke on a particularly timely and technical topic:
“Navigating civil law constructs in common law jurisdictions. Why make it easy when complexity is an option?”
His session addressed the practical challenges that arise when traditional civil‑law concepts encounter the logic and expectations of common‑law systems — an increasingly common situation for internationally mobile families and cross‑border investors.
Key considerations discussed included:
- How common‑law jurisdictions perceive and interpret key civil‑law mechanisms (e.g., usufruct, dismemberment of ownership, matrimonial property rules)
- The impact on international estate planning and private wealth structuring
- Areas of friction between legal systems and strategies to minimise cross‑border uncertainty
Arkwood was also represented by Marine Dupas, who attended the conference and contributed to the exchanges with practitioners from multiple jurisdictions.
We extend our thanks to the IBA Private Client Tax Committee and the Family Law Committee for organising yet another high‑level event and facilitating rich discussions on the evolving landscape of global private wealth.
