There Might Be Dragons (The Fear of Internationalization) - Jeff Thomas

In the early sixteenth century, the Hunt-Lenox globe was drawn, showing uncharted (and presumably dangerous) areas, marked with the warning: “HIC SVNT DRACONES” – “Here are Dragons.”

Subsequent to that time, mariners sometimes adopted the phrase, “there might be dragons,” if they became concerned for their safety when in unfamiliar waters.

It’s now an archaic saying, yet it’s even more applicable today than in times of yore. There are literally millions of people (particularly in the EU, US and Canada) who are fearful that their country of residence is becoming increasingly less free and less safe for themselves and their wealth. Some are looking into the prospect of internationalizing themselves, but a much smaller percentage actually take the plunge. Why should this be so? Well, as in centuries passed, for many, the reason is that … there might be dragons.

Of course, none of the mariners of old had actually ever seen a dragon, so each one conjured up his own image, and this is just as true today. For those of us who advise on internationalization, here are a few perceived dragons that we hear about repeatedly:

I don’t know anything about internationalization. I wouldn’t know where to begin.

You’ve already begun. Follow the “International Man” website. It has over five years of archived articles that cover virtually every aspect of internationalizing. In addition, obtain a copy of “Going Global.” Go on line to research destinations than fit your personal situation. Then, instead of a holiday to Disney World, go to a country that seems to you to be the most likely best choice for either a second home, or even a complete change of national residence. You’ll be amazed at how extensive and varied the opportunities are out there.

Won’t I just end up as a slave to a different country instead of my home country?

Not if you choose your destination well. Many countries are far less invasive to your freedoms and wealth than the three jurisdictions mentioned above. Some, in fact, are just as prosperous and well-developed as your present country, yet have zero direct taxes.

In addition, should you choose to live in multiple destinations, you’d be less “owned” as a visitor or temporary resident than if you were a full-time resident and citizen.

Will I have rights there, since I’ll be a foreigner?

For those countries that fall under English common law, your rights will be almost identical to those of the locals. (This is less true in countries that come under civil law – notably Spanish America and much of Europe.) However, most everywhere, you will be regarded as a guest and, in many ways be treated better than locals. In some countries, you would be treated better by both locals and the government than you were at home.

Will I have to learn a new language?

Yes, or no, depending on your choice of destination. For anywhere in Central or South America (except Belize, Suriname and Guyana), yes. For the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and many Pacific islands, English is the primary language. In many other countries – Israel, the Philippines, and most of Europe, English is spoken by a majority of residents. Your choice of destination may, in part, depend on your ability (or willingness) to learn another language.

What if I can’t find any friends?

Most choice destination countries already have entire expat communities. However, many who expatriate themselves find that they prefer the locals and choose either integrated communities, or predominantly local communities.

If I cash out here, my funds to start over elsewhere might be limited. How can I be sure that I’ll be able to afford to live there without giving up my lifestyle?

First, if you wait to cash out until after events such as a real estate crash has occurred at home, or confiscation of your bank deposits has occurred, then yes, you will have less when you leave. Hence, the sooner the better. Second, your lifestyle would be likely to change, as you’d probably make different choices than before, based on new opportunities. Third, you may choose a destination where you’re already far more wealthy than most locals – where the cost of living is far lower than what you now pay. Fourth, even in a high-cost-of-living destination, if you choose to work, you’d probably be making more than at home. Fifth, if you move to a low-tax, or no-tax jurisdiction, you’d retain much more of your gross income. (My own country is such a destination and I’ve met countless people who came without even enough money to buy a used car, but ended up very successful.)

What if I’m unhappy there?

It’s a big world. There are many other choices and your first stop needn’t be your last. However, if you do your homework well, before going, you’re likely to pick more wisely the first time out.

What if I decide I want to go back?

Some people (but not many) do make that choice. But, they then find that any government that wants your money is more than happy to take you back. (Governments have no objection to wealth coming back in, they only try to stop it going out.) Even those who renounce their citizenship often find that they’re welcomed back into their first country, either on a visa or by reinstating their citizenship. However, the great majority, having succeeded at internationalizing, never choose this option.

Many people fear perceived dragons when considering internationalization. When doing so, they often overlook the very real dragon that’s creeping up behind them – the dragon of a declining world power that’s compensating for its decline through overreach – increasing taxation, removal of basic freedoms, an increasing police state, plus ever-expanding capital controls and governmental surveillance. As the situation worsens, the known world may well become more threatening than the new one.

The Middle Ages came to an end, in part, because new lands were discovered to the west by the mariners. Many people opted to stay put, for fear of dragons. Others opted for the slogan found on the reverse of Spanish coinage at that time. The two pillars on the coins represented the Straits of Gibraltar, and the slogan on the pillars – “PLUS ULTRA” (more beyond) signified a whole world apart from the old one, with new opportunities. The choice today is the same. Your future may depend on your outlook – whether you see the greater world from the standpoint of HIC SVNT DRACONES or PLUS ULTRA.

The author is not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Sprott Money Ltd. The views and opinions expressed in this material are those of the author or guest speaker, are subject to change and may not necessarily reflect the opinions of Sprott Money Ltd. Sprott Money does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, timeliness and reliability of the information or any results from its use.