By: Sam Zell

I’ve always thought Manhattan was its own planet. The pace, the skyline, the constant talk about “the next big thing.” But here’s the truth — businesses that start in Manhattan often dream bigger. They’re not content with one borough or even one city. 

They eye Paris, Dubai, Singapore. And here’s where the real test begins: business structures. It sounds dull at first, but honestly, it’s the skeleton of everything. From taxes to liability to whether investors even take you seriously.

Why knowing the right structure matters is obvious in theory. But when you go global, the stakes get higher. You need to know not just LLC vs. corporation, but joint ventures, licensing, public entities, and yeah — sometimes you need support for forming offshore companies too. 

And that’s less shady than it sounds. Offshore company formation is basically registering your business in a foreign market so you can tap into friendlier regulations, tax efficiencies, or easier access to global customers. Firms like Ascot help guide you through the process — choosing jurisdictions, understanding compliance, and setting up in places where expansion makes sense without wading blindly into legal complexity.

The first time I heard that phrase, I rolled my eyes. Offshore sounded shady, like something out of a crime documentary. Then I actually looked into it. Turns out, it’s less scandalous and more survival strategy for certain industries.

Why Structure Matters: Beyond Paperwork

So, why do business structures matter so much? Because they decide:

• How much personal risk you take on.
• How your taxes look (and whether they crush you).
• How easy it is to raise capital.
• How much control you keep.

In Manhattan, it’s tempting to go for speed — sole proprietorship, quick LLC. Fast, easy, minimal fuss. But when you’re thinking “global markets,” you need something sturdier. Think of it like upgrading from a studio apartment to something with real walls and space.

Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships: Fine… Until They’re Not

A lot of businesses begin here. You + an idea. Or maybe you and a friend. Simplicity has perks. But unlimited liability? That part stings. One lawsuit, one unexpected debt, and your personal assets are on the line.

For exporting goods or dipping into overseas markets, this structure feels fragile. I met a boutique owner once — she tried exporting her handmade bags to Europe under a sole proprietorship. Customs, taxes, import headaches… it nearly broke her. She switched to a limited company and suddenly doors opened.

Limited Companies (LLCs / Ltds): The Global Sweet Spot

Honestly, this is where most NYC entrepreneurs land when going global. Limited liability. Separation between you and the business. Investors like it. Banks like it. Even clients feel reassured.

It also makes hiring abroad easier. You can contract, employ, source materials, all without blurring personal lines. And with the right advisors, you can structure tax obligations to avoid painful surprises.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning overseas expansion, check whether your LLC can register subsidiaries in your target country. It saves a ton of headaches later.

Public Companies (PLCs): Big Game Territory

This is where you go when you want to raise serious capital. Shares on the market. Stringent regulations. In Manhattan terms — think Wall Street IPOs, splashy headlines.

Pros? Cash flow and credibility. Cons? Transparency requirements that can feel invasive, and loss of control if investors hold sway. Not for the faint of heart, but essential for businesses scaling at a global pace.

Licensing and Franchising: Expanding Without Moving

Here’s where it gets fun. You don’t always need to “set up shop” abroad. Sometimes, you license your IP. Sometimes, you franchise your model.

• Licensing: another company uses your designs/brand for royalties.
• Franchising: someone runs your concept under your brand rules.

McDonald’s did it. So did countless fitness studios. The risk? Less control. Your brand’s reputation rests in the hands of outsiders. But the reach? Enormous.

Joint Ventures: Shared Beds, Shared Risks

A joint venture is like dating with paperwork. You team up with a local partner in a target market. They bring expertise, connections, networks. You bring brand, capital, or tech.

I once watched a Manhattan-based wellness brand team up with a Tokyo spa group. The partnership thrived because the local partner knew Japanese consumer habits better than any outsider could. But — and this is big — not all joint ventures end in harmony. Cultural clashes, profit splits, differing visions… it can unravel quickly.

Offshore Companies: Not Always What You Think

Here’s where we circle back. Offshore used to sound sketchy. But support for forming offshore companies is becoming a normal part of global business planning. Why?

• Tax efficiency (not avoidance, but optimization).
• Access to international banking.
• Easier movement of capital.
• Privacy in competitive industries.

Places like the Cayman Islands, BVI, even Cyprus get attention because they simplify cross-border complexities. Not every business needs this — but for some, it’s the only way to manage multiple markets without drowning in red tape.

Pro Tip: Never set up offshore alone. Always use licensed advisors who understand both NYC law and your target country. Cutting corners here can wreck your reputation.

Exporting Goods: Low-Risk First Step

Exporting is the “toe dip” into international waters. You sell abroad, but keep operations local. It’s affordable, low risk, and perfect for testing demand.

Structures that fit? Sole trader (small scale), limited company (growth-friendly). The challenge is logistics: customs, currency, shipping. Tools like multi-currency accounts help, but don’t underestimate the paperwork.

Table: Quick Breakdown of Business Structures

Reflections: From Manhattan Streets to Global Streets

In the end, going global isn’t just about ambition. It’s about architecture. The architecture of your business. From a tiny salon in Midtown to a multinational with franchises in Dubai, the structure shapes your story.

Why? Because it’s the unseen foundation. Clients see the logo, investors see the numbers, employees see the culture… but the structure quietly directs all of it. And whether you need a simple LLC or full-on support for forming offshore companies, the choice determines whether you’re just surviving in Manhattan or thriving in global markets.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional legal or financial advice. Business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to consult with legal and financial professionals to determine the best structure for their specific needs, especially when expanding into global markets.