Private Law Theory

ABSTRACT
This report maps the state of play of real estate ownership transparency around the world, as it pertains to the abuse of real estate for financial crimes (eg corruption, money laundering, tax and sanction evasion). Drawing on the Financial Secrecy Index methodology, the research assesses 141 jurisdictions across 5 components: (1) whether beneficial ownership registration laws cover foreign legal vehicles that hold or acquire domestic real estate; (2) whether real estate information is centralised; (3) whether it is available online; (4) whether ownership information is publicly accessible or restricted (eg, legitimate interest or role-based access); and (5) whether cost barriers undermine practical access.

Knobel, Andres and Harari, Moran and Lorenzo, Florencia and Michel, Bob and Millán, Lucas and Villanueva, Gonzalo, Beneficial Ownership of Real Estate Around the World (July 1, 2026).