I'm an American considering a job in Geneva. We'd need to be living somewhere in easy commuting distance - I'm assuming this would be Geneva or Vaud.

Upon doing some research, I stumbled across the fact that Switzerland has a wealth tax, and Geneva and Vaud have some of the highest rates. I was so blinded by the Swiss reputation as a tax haven that I hadn't even considered this.

I have some questions on the wealth tax. Are there any ways of structuring assets that are not located in Switzerland, and not real estate (i.e. stocks and bonds), that would reduce tax liability? I'm thinking things like trusts, llc, partnerships, etc. Or - are there any other options I'm missing?

Also - if it's even possible, at what level of assets would the expense of setting these kinds of structures be worthwhile?

One more question - I understand I'd probably need to find a tax adviser.
How would I go about finding a reputable one?

thank you!

First - go to comparis.ch: Finances -> Tax comparison, and put your details in to see how much of the wealth tax you'd have to pay per canton.

Then, if the sum is big enough -- try to find an advisor. Remember to find the one that specializes in American "cases" (as currently Swiss bankers / advisors go crazy when you mention that you're American -- you have to fill special forms when filing your tax returns etc).