Robert Levitt is the founder and CEO of Levitt Capital Management, a boutique investment advisory firm headquartered in Nice, France. With decades of experience in financial services, Levitt has carved out a unique niche specializing in advising American expatriates living in Europe. His firm addresses the complex financial and regulatory challenges faced by U.S. citizens abroad, including dual taxation, restrictions on investments, and compliance with both U.S. and European laws.
Levitt previously operated a successful investment advisory firm in Florida, managing private accounts and hedge funds with a membership threshold of $3 million. In 2007, he expanded operations into Europe to serve South American clients seeking alternatives outside the U.S. However, following regulatory shifts and the global financial crisis in 2008, the European branch was closed. Recognizing an underserved market for American expats in Europe, Levitt reestablished operations in 2021 to meet growing demand for specialized financial advice.
An expert in international taxation and investment regulations, Levitt has been deeply involved in policymaking discussions as the Deputy Chair for Tax Policy of the Democratic Party’s Americans Overseas Taxation Task Force. He has access to legislative developments affecting expatriates, including proposals like residence-based taxation that could eliminate double taxation for U.S. citizens abroad.
Levitt’s firm currently serves clients across nine European countries and is rapidly expanding to meet demand from regions such as Sweden and the Czech Republic. His expertise spans navigating country-specific tax treaties, understanding local retirement products (e.g., French IRAs), and ensuring compliance with European regulations like MiFID II and FATCA. Fluent in French, Levitt has passed rigorous exams required to operate legally within European financial markets.
Connect with Robert on LinkedIn
Interview questions:
Background & Career Journey
1: What inspired you to move to France to focus on Americans living in Europe?
2: What are the biggest differences you’ve observed between the financial advisory industries in the U.S. and France?
3: How has your academic pursuits in French medieval history influenced your approach to investment management?
Navigating Cross-Border Complexities
4: What are the most common financial and regulatory challenges Americans face when living in Europe, and how does your firm help them navigate these hurdles?
5: How do tax laws and regulations complicate investment options for American expats?
Investment Strategy & Technology
6: What role does technology and AI play in your firm’s operations and client service today?
7: Are there particular investment vehicles or strategies that you find especially effective for Americans abroad, given the regulatory constraints?
Broader Trends & Reflections
8: With the regulatory environment becoming more complex on both sides of the Atlantic, how do you stay ahead and ensure compliance for your clients?
9: What trends do you see shaping the future of cross-border wealth management for Americans in Europe?
10: Looking back, what has been the most rewarding aspect of building Levitt Capital Management in France, and what are you most excited about for the future?
Founded by Robert Levitt and based in Nice, France, Levitt Capital Management is a wealth management firm specializing in providing tailored financial solutions for Americans residing in Europe, especially those living in France. With a focus on personalized service and in-depth knowledge of international financial landscapes, Levitt Capital Management assists clients in achieving their financial goals while ensuring compliance with both U.S. and local regulations. Mr. Levitt has been profiled in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CBNC, Bloomberg, Fortune, Time Magazine, and more. For more information about Levitt Capital Management and their services, please visit https://levittcapital.fr/.
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