Investing as a US citizen in the UK is rarely straightforward. US tax obligations follow the individual regardless of where they live, meaning that many commonly-used UK investment structures are unsuitable or create additional reporting complexity. As a result, expats need to juggle the requirements of two countries, sometimes across multiple providers, with an increased risk of unnecessary cost and complication.

The Global Direct Service has been developed to address this situation. It will be managed by the investment team responsible for the "flagship" Arbuthnot Latham investment service.

The firm said that by investing in individual securities rather than pooled funds, the service provides a more straightforward, transparent approach that is compatible with US tax and reporting requirements and avoids common issues such as passive foreign investment company exposure.

The Global Direct Service completes Arbuthnot Latham’s offering for US-connected individuals living in the UK, supporting clients across their full financial world – from private banking and wealth planning to investment management, the UK bank said.

The service offers direct ownership of global equities and government bonds, providing visibility of underlying holdings and lower costs compared with fund-based exposure. The portfolio invests across major developed markets, combining diversified exposure to global companies with a systematic approach to equity selection. Strategic long-term allocations are complemented by periodic adjustments to reflect market conditions, with portfolios tailored to each client’s risk profile and objectives. The minimum investment amount is £750,000 ($1 million).

“We understand the unique challenges that US-connected individuals and families living in the UK face, who are subject to US rules which are often incompatible with UK investment structures,” Andrew Grimes, director, international private banking, said. “The Global Direct Service is a strategic addition to our discretionary service, built directly from client need, feedback, and lived experience. The service bolsters our private banking and wealth management offering, as well as reinforces our commitment to our clients with international banking needs.”

The number of US expats relocating to the UK has been rising in recent years; they are seeking political stability and a workable lifestyle, amongst other reasons. (See an analysis here). Wealthy Americans also represent a major non-UK buying demographic for prime real estate in London such as Belgravia, Mayfair and Chelsea.

UK wealth manager also recently launched a new model portfolio service designed to help advisors manage the complexities of cross-border investing for US citizens living in Britain. A number of firms have tapped into the US-UK market, such as Schroders and MASECO. Interestingly, both of these firms are being acquired by US businesses – Nuveen and Creative Planning, respectively. MASECO, a specialist in this client base since 2008, grew assets past £3 billion before being acquired by Creative Planning in March 2026. Another firm offering a specialised wealth management service tailored for US expats in the UK, is LeifBridge, part of UK-based Shard Capital.