Fife Banks established BraveICONS Global in December 2013, where he serves as the founder. This professional services firm specializes in providing comprehensive support to investors and their families. Their primary objective is to facilitate access to accurate information and establish connections with reputable regional centers duly authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to offer EB5 investment opportunities.
Within the framework of BraveICONS Global, Banks and his team extend their expertise to guide investors through the intricate process of locating a qualified U.S.-licensed Immigration Attorney. These legal professionals play a crucial role in assisting investors with their initial immigration filings and necessary adjustments of status.
In this interview, Fife Banks elaborates on the numerous advantages that the EB-5 Programme offers to African investors.
What is the core message conveyed by you regarding the importance of second citizenship in modern wealth management, and how does it relate to the changing global economic landscape?
Every savvy 21st Century investor recognizes the significance of a second citizenship as not only one of the most useful leverage points of the 21st century but also an essential spoke in the wheel of modern wealth management. You have to find legal and sustainable means of hedging against everything from inflation to insecurity, and having a second citizenship often gives you that privilege.
The challenge, however, is the availability of tested and trusted advisors who are willing to help investors and their families navigate the murky waters of the exclusive citizenship by investment industry, from issues of confidentiality to clarifying grey areas of both the investment and the immigration parts of the process.
I often say that with the recent global economic dynamics, nobody who can afford it really wants to toss away a lifetime opportunity tantamount to a modern-day life insurance policy for themselves and their families, especially at uncertain times. Besides, everyone loves a beneficial, bequeathable asset that can be passed on to family generations, a gainful gateway that guarantees enhanced global mobility, exclusive investment opportunities, superior quality of life with education, healthcare, security, and maybe even tax advantages.
Can you explain the key benefits that African investors can obtain through the EB-5 Program in the United States, as highlighted by Fife Banks?
African investors exploring the EB-5 Program in the United States can unlock a multitude of valuable benefits, including:
US Permanent Residency: The EB-5 Program offers a direct pathway to obtaining US Permanent Residency for investors and their families. This status grants the privilege to live, work, and study anywhere in the United States.
US Citizenship: Over time, Permanent Residency can lead to US Citizenship, providing investors and their families with the opportunity to fully integrate into American society and enjoy all the rights and privileges that come with it.
Portfolio Diversification: By investing in job-creating enterprises in the United States, investors can diversify their investment portfolios. This diversification is especially valuable in today’s dynamic global economy.
Economic Contribution: EB-5 investors play a pivotal role in stimulating the US economy by creating jobs for US workers. This contribution to local economies aligns with investment goals while fostering positive societal impact.
Enhanced Security: Beyond financial gains, the EB-5 Program offers a layer of security for investments. The United States is known for its stable business environment, which nurtures investments and allows them to flourish.
Access to Premium Healthcare: Investors and their families gain access to one of the world’s leading healthcare systems. This ensures their well-being and peace of mind.
World-Class Education: The EB-5 Program opens doors to world-class educational opportunities for investors and their loved ones. Access to renowned institutions nurtures intellectual growth and potential.
Potential for Favorable Returns: Although ROI from most regional centers may be relatively low, the EB-5 Program presents the potential for favorable financial returns. Investors can also hedge against inflation in their local economy, making this investment option even more appealing.
Risk Management: The program is subject to stringent regulations and oversight mechanisms, including the Reforms and Integrity Act on EB-5. This provides a level of risk management often sought after by savvy investors. Importantly, investors get their capital back after the investment term.
Exclusive Investment Opportunities: Participating in the EB-5 Program grants access to a portfolio of premium projects carefully curated for discerning investors.
These benefits collectively make the EB-5 Program a compelling choice for African investors looking to secure a brighter future for themselves and their families while contributing to the growth of the United States’ economy.
How do you and BraveICONS Global assist investors in navigating the complexities of citizenship by investment, including confidentiality and immigration issues?
At BraveICONS Global, we understand that the journey to acquiring a second citizenship through investment is a significant and often complex undertaking. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to investors, ensuring a smooth and confidential process. Here’s how we assist:
Expert Guidance: Although we are focused on the United States’ EB-5 program, our team and associates comprise seasoned experts well-versed in the nuances of citizenship by investment programs worldwide. We provide investors with expert guidance on program selection, eligibility criteria, and investment options.
Confidentiality: We prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of our clients. All interactions and information shared with us are treated with the utmost discretion. Our secure processes and protocols ensure that sensitive data remains confidential throughout the process.
Comprehensive Due Diligence: We conduct thorough due diligence on behalf of investors to identify credible and reputable investment opportunities and regional centers. This process minimizes risks and ensures that investors are presented with trustworthy options.
Immigration Expertise: Navigating the immigration component of citizenship by investment is critical. We connect investors with experienced, US-licensed Immigration Attorneys who specialize in the EB-5 Program. These attorneys guide investors through the immigration filings and adjustments of status, ensuring compliance with all immigration requirements.
Customized Strategies: Each investor’s situation is unique. We work closely with our clients to develop personalized investment and immigration strategies tailored to their specific goals and circumstances.
Transparency: We believe in transparent communication. Throughout the process, we keep investors informed about the progress of their applications, the status of their investments, and any changes in immigration policies.
Access to Vetted Regional Centers: We have established relationships with reputable EB-5 Regional Centers that are approved by the US Citizens and Immigration Service (USCIS). This ensures that investors are presented with legitimate investment opportunities.
Ongoing Support: Our commitment to investors extends beyond the initial application process. We provide ongoing support, addressing any questions or concerns that may arise during the investment period or immigration journey.
Network of Professionals: Through our extensive network of professionals, including legal experts, financial advisors, and project developers, we offer a holistic approach to citizenship by investment. This network ensures that all aspects of an investor’s journey are covered.
Compliance: We stay up-to-date with evolving immigration laws and regulations to ensure that our clients remain in compliance throughout their journey.
Our goal is to make the citizenship by investment process as seamless as possible, providing investors with peace of mind as they embark on this transformative journey toward acquiring a second citizenship and securing a prosperous future for themselves and their families.
What role do you play in promoting bilateral trade relations between Nigeria and the United States, and how do you connect American investors with opportunities in Nigeria?
As a USCIS-registered Direct Promoter of partner Regional Centers’ EB-5 offerings, we help Nigerian investors invest in the US economy through the EB-5 program. These investments create and sustain jobs and, in turn, empower the investors and their families with US permanent residency and its attendant benefits.
Also, as the Chairman of Young CEOs at the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), I have led a delegation of young Nigerian CEOs to the US-Nigeria Investment Summit in New York in September 2021, where we connected with our American counterparts and other established businesses and prospective investors. Every year, I also lead a delegation of Nigerian investors to the IIUSA EB-5 Industry Forum in the United States for in-person meetings with various stakeholders.
In addition, my firm, BraveICONS Global, works with clients doing business and forging strategic commercial partnerships across both countries. Going forward, we are working on an initiative that allows US investors as well as Nigerians in the US to invest directly in Nigerian SMEs. Our primary focus is on connecting Nigerian investors with opportunities in the United States.
What are some of the key features and advantages of the EB-5 Information Series organized by IIUSA for investors in various global markets, including Nigeria?
The EB-5 Information Series, organized by IIUSA, offers Nigerian investors valuable insights into the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. It provides actionable intelligence on program requirements, connects investors with reputable regional centers, and highlights the benefits of the EB-5 program. This series hosts high-level discussions with industry experts, facilitates exclusive networking opportunities, and includes in-person events. It serves as a continued education resource for investors, ensuring they are well-informed about EB-5 opportunities.
Beyond EB-5 investment opportunities, what other services and areas of expertise does BraveICONS Global offer to investors and businesses in Africa?
BraveICONS Global goes beyond EB-5 investment opportunities. The firm offers a diverse array of services, specializing in advisory and optimization services. These services are divided into two broad practice areas: Transactions Advisory (business and strategic planning, alternative investments, international business representation, investments and trade promotions, project financing) and Talents Advisory (human capital management, performance audit, learning and development, executive coaching). These services cater to various clients, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals/families, corporations, organizations, institutions, and nation-states.
BraveICONS Global’s expertise covers a wide spectrum of solutions, such as facilitating cross-border investments, strategic collaborations, and optimizing pathways for growth and development, all tailored to the unique needs of our clientele. In addition, since the end of COVID-19, we run BRAVE by BraveICONS Global, a Multi-Family Office helping high-net-worth African families develop lifestyles and legacies of shared prosperity.
Beyond EB-5 investment opportunities, what other services and areas of expertise does BraveICONS Global offer to investors and businesses in Africa?
BraveICONS Global goes beyond EB-5 investment opportunities. The firm offers a diverse array of services, specializing in advisory and optimization services. These services are divided into two broad practice areas: Transactions Advisory (business and strategic planning, alternative investments, international business representation, investments and trade promotions, project financing) and Talents Advisory (human capital management, performance audit, learning and development, executive coaching). These services cater to various clients, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals/families, corporations, organizations, institutions, and nation-states. BraveICONS Global’s expertise covers a wide spectrum of solutions, such as facilitating cross-border investments, strategic collaborations, and optimizing pathways for growth and development, all tailored to the unique needs of our clientele. In addition, since the end of COVID-19, we run BRAVE by BraveICONS Global, a Multi-Family Office helping high-net-worth African families develop lifestyles and legacies of shared prosperity.
How have you contributed to the development of shared and sustainable prosperity in Africa, particularly through initiatives like the BRAVE Multi-Family Office and your role as the National Prosperity Policy Fellow?
Whether in my role as Managing Partner/CEO at BraveICONS Global or as the first National Prosperity Policy Fellow at the National Chamber Policy Centre in Abuja, I am contributing my quota to the development of shared and sustainable prosperity in Africa by extending my expertise to clients across the public, private, and development sectors, helping to shape policy and strategies along the lines of developing prosperity as opposed to just “alleviating poverty.” In early 2023, I embarked on an ongoing policy advocacy engagement – #PoliticsOfProsperity with leaders and policymakers during the last election and of course in the post-election season where the rubber meets the road in terms of how each elected or appointed public office holder will develop shared and sustainable prosperity in their ecosystems. We are also starting a Prosperity Development Fellowship program for young scholars in 2024. There are other initiatives like the BRAVE Multi-Family Office, which was established in collaboration with other Subject Matter Experts to help entrench the culture of building transgenerational wealth for family-owned businesses in Africa. The goal of BRAVE Multi-Family Office is to assist high-net-worth African families in developing lifestyles and legacies centered on shared and sustainable prosperity. I absolutely believe that to sustainably achieve Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), we must not only mainstream conversations around “Prosperity Development” in Nigeria and across Africa but also begin to look at metrics beyond GDP to determine how prosperous we are or can be as a nation, representing an alternative paradigm for achieving Sustainable related to ending poverty. Beyond facilitating investments into Nigeria, I also leverage public speaking opportunities and other commercial platforms to deepen the ‘prosperity paradigm’ conversations.
Can you provide more details about your upcoming book and advocacy for Prosperity Development as an alternative paradigm for achieving SDG 1 (Sustainable Development Goal 1)?
My upcoming book on the core subject of Prosperity is a product of many years of research and firsthand observation of how individuals and families, corporations, organizations, institutions, and nation-states have been able to optimize their potentials and develop prosperity in their ecosystems. I have been sharing some core principles from the book in my public speaking engagements over the past 7 years. Watch out for it in 2024.
What is the significance of the upcoming Investors Luncheon in Abuja and Investors Dinner in Lagos organized by IIUSA in November 2023, and what can eligible Nigerian investors expect from these events?
The upcoming Investors Luncheon in Abuja and Investors Dinner in Lagos, organized by IIUSA in November 2023, hold significant importance for eligible Nigerian investors interested in the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. These events provide a valuable platform for investors to gain insights, network with industry experts, and explore opportunities related to the EB-5 program. Here’s what eligible Nigerian investors can expect:
Insights and Information: The events will offer a wealth of information about the EB-5 program, its benefits, and the investment process. Investors can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the program works and its potential advantages.
Networking Opportunities: The events will bring together a diverse group of participants, including high-net-worth individuals, investors, industry experts, and stakeholders. This creates an ideal environment for networking and building connections with professionals who can guide them through the EB-5 journey.
Expert Guidance: Eligible investors can anticipate access to expert guidance and advice from those experienced in the EB-5 program. They can seek answers to their questions and receive insights into the best strategies for successful participation.
Exploration of Investment Opportunities: The events may showcase specific EB-5 projects and investment opportunities. Investors can explore these projects to understand where their investments could potentially go and how they align with their financial goals.
Clarification of Doubts: Investors often have questions and doubts about the EB-5 program, including issues related to immigration and investment. These events offer a platform to get these doubts clarified by experts, ensuring a clear and informed decision-making process.
Exclusive Access: The events are exclusive and cater to individuals interested in the EB-5 program. This exclusivity ensures that investors receive personalized attention and tailored information to meet their needs.
In summary, the Investors Luncheon in Abuja and Investors Dinner in Lagos are valuable opportunities for eligible Nigerian investors to gather knowledge, engage with experts, and take significant steps toward exploring the EB-5 program as a pathway to US Permanent Residency and Citizenship.
