Legal Support for Investment Funds and CNB Licensing in Prague

At ARROWS, we open the gates to the capital markets ...

We secure licenses from the Czech National Bank (CNB) so that regulation is not a burden, but your greatest competitive advantage. We protect fund founders and fintech projects at every step – from the initial feasibility analysis through demanding licensing proceedings to the successful defense of processes before the regulator. Conduct your business in the regulated world with legal support from our Prague-based team that understands both technology and the language of high finance.

 

Why entrust your funds and investments to ARROWS?

• Specialists in QIFs and mini-funds: We know when a "large" Qualified Investor Fund (QIF) is right for you and when an efficient mini-fund under Section 15 of the Czech Investment Companies and Investment Funds Act (ZISIF) is sufficient.
• A business-oriented view of finance: For us, a fund is not just a pile of paperwork, but a tool for capital accumulation. Our Prague-based attorneys understand tokenization, real estate funds, and Private Equity.
• Leaders in MiCA and Crypto regulation: We are at the forefront of implementing the European MiCA regulation in the Czech Republic. We help crypto projects gain legitimacy and access to banking services.
• AI Compliance & AML: We deploy our own AI tools for lightning-fast AML screening of investors (onboarding), shortening processes by days.

Contact our Czech legal team if:

• You are establishing a fund (QIF or SICAV): You need a complete legal architecture for managing billion-koruna assets under Czech law.
• You are launching a "mini-fund" (§ 15 ZISIF): You are looking for a fast and cost-effective way to legally manage investor money under the Czech National Bank (CNB) limits.
• You are dealing with crypto and MiCA: You want to license a crypto exchange or issue your own investment tokens in the Czech Republic.
• You are planning a bond issue: You need a prospectus approved by the Czech National Bank and the setup of security for investors.
• You are entering the payment services market: You need a payment institution license for your fintech under Czech legislation.

A) Investment Funds, SICAV, and Asset Management

We build asset management structures that last generations and meet the requirements of both banks and regulators.

• Qualified Investor Funds (QIF): Complete setup from choosing the legal form (often SICAV) through the articles of association to the investment company license.
• Mini-funds and asset management under § 15 ZISIF: The fastest route to legal management of third-party assets. We handle registration with the Czech National Bank and set up bulletproof AML.
• Family Funds and Family Offices: Legal security for managing family wealth with an emphasis on discretion and continuity in the Czech Republic.
• Investor Documentation: Preparation of statutes, issuance terms, and investment agreements that clearly define risks and returns.

B) MiCA, Crypto-assets, and Fintech

We are your guide in the era of regulated digital finance.

• Licensing under MiCA: Strategic preparation for obtaining a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) permit across the EU.
• Tokenization of Real-World Assets (RWA): Legal framework for converting real estate or companies into digital tokens under Czech commercial law.
• Payment Institutions: Small and large-scale licenses, representation before the Czech National Bank, and setup of internal regulations.

C) Regulatory Compliance and AML with AI Support

We will audit your internal systems before they are inspected by the Czech National Bank or the Financial Analytical Office (FAÚ).

• Automated AML: Deployment of our AI tools for instant identification of ultimate beneficial owners and checking against sanction lists.
• Internal Audits and Management Controls: Regular review of your processes to ensure they comply with the latest Czech National Bank methodological guidelines.
• Representation before the Regulator: We take over all communication in licensing and inspection proceedings.

The Path to Your Fund (Our Process)

1. Structural Analysis We analyze your capital and intent. We decide whether a QIF, SICAV, or a "Section 15" mini-fund is better.
2. Result: A precise business-legal plan and a budget for establishment.
3. Documentation Preparation (AI Driven) Using AI, we prepare articles of association, statutes, and internal regulations meeting CNB standards.
4. Result: A package of documents ready for submission to the regulator or for a notarial deed.
5. Proceedings before the Czech National Bank We take on the role of your representative. We handle CNB comments and "push" the license toward issuance.
6. Result: Official registration or license, providing you with a stamp of credibility.
7. Running Support We assist with investor onboarding, reporting, and monitor legislation (e.g., the transition to MiCA).
8. Result: Secure fund operation without fear of fines or license revocation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take to obtain a CNB license? For smaller license types (payment institutions, investment intermediaries), it usually takes several months. Complex licenses (Investment Firms, crowdfunding, specialized fintech models) take longer, especially if foreign capital is involved. The quality of the licensing file is crucial — a well-prepared process significantly accelerates the timeline with the Czech National Bank.
2. How much does the licensing process or a regulated project cost? The price depends on the type of license, the scope of internal regulations, the number of managing directors, AML processes, and technology implementation. After an initial consultation, our Prague-based attorneys always prepare a clear pricing structure — fixed, hybrid, or monthly model.
3. Do you handle complicated and international structures? Yes. We work with foreign investors, holdings, SPVs, funds, and fintech projects that combine multiple regulatory areas. We provide fit & proper assessments, DORA requirements, capital structures, and operational compliance for companies from both EU and non-EU jurisdictions operating in the Czech Republic.
4. Do you support fintech and crypto projects under MiCA? Yes. CASP registration, custody, exchanges, tokenization, and whitepapers are part of our services. We can design a model that passes the Czech regulator's scrutiny while remaining commercially viable.
5. What is the best first step? A rapid regulatory analysis. We will review your model, risks, AML, and capital requirements under Czech law. You will immediately know which steps are necessary and which can be deferred to avoid delaying the project.
6. Do you also assist with bond issues and investment products? Yes — we prepare the entire legal framework for issuances, assess prospectus obligations, draft documentation, and handle compliance regarding distributors and investors in the Czech market.
7.  Do you provide long-term support after obtaining the license? Yes. Governance, reporting, compliance, AML, control and audit functions, license amendments, and ongoing communication with the Czech National Bank are standard parts of our work.

Are you ready to ensure legal certainty and strategic growth for your business? Contact ARROWS law firm in Prague today to discuss how our specialists can support your goals.

Don't want to handle this issue alone? More than 2,000 clients trust us, and we have been awarded Law Firm of the Year 2024 in the Czech Republic. View our references HERE.

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