Regional Intelligence
Austria
A foundation-driven wealth market with no inheritance or gift tax, where more than 3,000 private foundations hold around €70 billion and control most of Austria's largest companies — though foundation taxes rose sharply in 2026.
Family offices
40+ (est.)
Avg AUM
€300M (est.)
Regulatory body
Financial Market Authority (FMA)
Tax environment
No inheritance, gift or wealth tax; foundation entry tax rose to 3.5% and the interim tax on foundation income to 27.5% from 2026.
Introduction
Austria's family wealth is organised less through branded family offices than through the Privatstiftung, the private foundation introduced in 1993. More than 3,000 foundations now hold around €70 billion in assets, and with no inheritance or gift tax since 2008, Austria remains one of Europe's more attractive places to hold and pass on family wealth.
Key Numbers
Private foundations3,000+
Foundation entry tax (from 2026)3.5%
Inheritance & gift tax0%
Evaluation
The Privatstiftung is a purpose-built vehicle for asset protection and succession, used by more than 3,000 families to hold around €70 billion, much of it in operating companies.
Resources Directory
Key Highlights
No inheritance or gift tax
Austria has not levied inheritance or gift tax since 2008
Mature foundation regime
The Privatstiftung, in place since 1993, is used by more than 3,000 families
Foundation-controlled industry
Eighty of the 100 largest Austrian companies are controlled by private foundations
Central European gateway
Close ties to German industry and Central and Eastern European markets
Frequently Asked Questions
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