Stiftung
A Stiftung (German: [ˈʃtɪftʊŋ] ) (properly Stiftung, pl. Stiftungen) is an institution or foundation that, with the aid of a property, pursues a purpose determined by the founder. A Stiftung foundation exists to give effect to the stated, non-commercial wishes of its founder, as set out in a foundation deed and the articles of association (statutes). In effect, the assets with which the foundation is endowed become a separate legal entity. A Stiftung foundation has no shares or members and is set up by a founder(s) in most cases to ensure the continuation of family assets.