Entrepreneurs
Owners can examine whether a group structure supports their commercial plans.
Holding company in Germany · Berlin · advising across Germany
Holding company in Germany
A holding company can consolidate investments, support succession or separate business risks. Its design should follow a defined commercial purpose.
Who it is for
For entrepreneurs planning across several levels.
Holding structures are particularly relevant when building a portfolio, separating assets or preparing a long-term ownership model.
Existing groups
Groups can simplify unclear ownership and approval paths.
Investors
Investors need a clear map of holdings, rights and future changes.
Advice
From target diagram to functioning group.
The corporate implementation is coordinated with existing interests, funding routes and decision rights.
Target structure
A holding arrangement needs a clear business purpose and must fit existing ownership.
- Separate operating and holding levels
- Map the ownership chain
- Consider funding, succession and exit
Building the group
Direct and indirect holdings need to be considered in light of control and future change.
- Record current interests and rights
- Plan transfers and capital measures
- Coordinate tax questions early
Implementation and governance
The new group needs clear responsibilities between holding company and subsidiaries.
- Prepare resolutions and transfer agreements
- Allocate management and approvals
- Record implementation and ongoing decisions
Contact
Want to assess a holding structure?
Outline the existing entities, investments and objective. I will assess which corporate route is realistically available.
How we work
Design the structure before forming entities.
The target model and its dependencies are worked through before companies are incorporated or shares are transferred.
Request counselAssess purpose and position
Current interests, companies and objectives are mapped with funding and exit plans.
Design the group
Control, cash flows and legal steps are aligned with tax consequences.
Implement the holding
Formation or transfer steps, approvals and responsibilities are coordinated.
Your contact: Dr. Philipp Lerch, attorney · Content last updated: 24 September 2026
Dr. Philipp LerchAttorney · Berlin
Profile
Legal precision meets commercial understanding.
As an attorney with experience at an international business law firm and an additional background in computer science, I combine corporate law expertise with a clear understanding of business models, processes, and technology.
- Former attorney at Hogan Lovells International LLP
- Two German honours examinations with a focus on commercial and corporate law
- Dr. jur. and LL.M. Corporate and Commercial Law, University of Sheffield
- B.Sc. Computer Science, Free University of Berlin
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
When might a holding company make sense?
Possible reasons include several investments, a planned group structure or separating business activities. Any benefit depends on the objective, existing structure and tax review.
Can a holding company be added above an existing GmbH?
Later restructuring can be possible but may have corporate, tax and contractual consequences. Ownership, approvals and sequence must be assessed for the particular case.
What is useful for an initial structure review?
An ownership chart, articles, shareholder lists, financing documents and an outline of further ventures or planned exits are helpful.
Contact
Want to assess a holding structure?
Outline the existing entities, investments and objective. I will assess which corporate route is realistically available.