Press Release

Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation
Release Date:
Wednesday, 18 June 2025 - 1:06pm

Leading insolvency and restructuring professionals from across the globe gathered at Peter Island Resort to participate in the RISA BVI & South Square Conference 2025.

The conference was held on June 18 and featured panel discussions exploring the complexities of cross-border recognition, with particular focus on the treatment of solvent liquidations and evolving approaches to proceedings outside a company’s place of incorporation. Experts also shared insights from key common law jurisdictions

Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE addressed the meeting and spoke about the Virgin Islands’ strategic response to the recent Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey listing. She outlined a plan for the Territory’s financial services sector and emphasised the commitment to innovation and regulatory strength.

Honourable Smith said, “By embracing innovation and strengthening regulatory frameworks, we are committed to forging a dynamic and forward-looking future for the Territory’s financial services sector. The Virgin Islands has always prided itself on its reputation as a robustly regulated jurisdiction. Given the work already done and our collective will across government, regulators, and the private sector, we are confident in achieving removal from the FATF grey list within the next two years.”

The event showcased a distinguished roster of experts, including leading barristers and practitioners specialising in contentious insolvency, cross-border litigation, asset tracing, investment fund disputes, and global insolvency matters. The day culminated with a keynote presentation by Director of Scarlett & Grey Hilary Scarlett, who shared cutting-edge perspectives on applied neuroscience and workplace performance.

The event was co-chaired by Tracy Cook (RH Restructuring) and Toby Brown (South Square).

The RISA BVI & South Square Conference 2025 provided an invaluable platform for the Government of the Virgin Islands to engage with international partners and contribute meaningfully to dialogue on global restructuring standards.

 

Author

Department of Information and Public Relations (GIS)

354 James Walter Francis Drive
RJT Edifice Building, 5th Floor
Road Town, TORTOLA VG1110

Tel: 284 468 2730
Fax: 284 468 2750
Email: gis@gov.vg