By Kathryn Beasley and Rachel Weir, Laytons LLP
The IPG Spring Conference 2026 in Luxembourg highlighted the strength of the IPG network, bringing together members from around the globe in a city renowned for its international outlook and financial expertise. Held from 7 to 10 May, the conference combined high-quality technical content with the personal connections that continue to define the IPG community.
Delegates arrived at the Hotel Le Royal, ideally situated in the heart of Luxembourg City. The conference began with a welcome dinner at Restaurant SixSeven, offering both long-standing members and new attendees the chance to reconnect and build new professional relationships in a relaxed and friendly setting.
The main conference programme opened with welcoming remarks from IPG Chairman Nick Lakeland and local host Adrian Sedlo.
Moritz von Kunow delivered an engaging historical overview explaining Luxembourg’s unique political and economic development. The presentation highlighted the country’s evolution from a strategic fortress state to an independent Grand Duchy, shaped by periods of foreign rule and key milestones such as the Treaties of London and the establishment of neutrality.
The session also traced Luxembourg’s transformation from a steel-based economy to a leading international financial centre. Key developments such as the introduction of UCITS and the growth of alternative investments have positioned Luxembourg as a globally competitive jurisdiction.
Jean-Paul Olinger provided insight into Luxembourg’s tax administration, highlighting the increasing emphasis on client-centricity, efficiency, and engagement with taxpayers in an evolving international tax environment.
Delegates were introduced to new members Spencer Fane LLP and GTM (Global Tax Management Inc) with presentations given by Andrew Hudders (Spencer Fane LLP) and Andrew McKinley (GTM). We warmly welcome both firms to the IPG network.
This session explored Luxembourg’s position as a leading jurisdiction for structuring international investments. Delegates were guided through the wide range of available vehicles, including UCITS, SIFs, RAIFs, partnerships and securitisation vehicles, each offering varying levels of flexibility and regulation.
The speakers highlighted that Luxembourg’s attractiveness is driven by its stable legal and tax framework, investor-friendly environment and highly skilled workforce.
Philippe El Khoury presented an innovative renewable energy initiative focused on AI-driven solar microgrids designed to provide clean, reliable electricity to underserved communities.
By combining renewable infrastructure with digital monitoring, prepaid models and smart metering, the initiative addresses global energy challenges while promoting sustainability, financial inclusion and local economic development.
The afternoon session focused on leadership and management development, with Camille Picard leading an interactive workshop on the transition from technical expert to effective leader.
The session explored key challenges in modern leadership, including balancing autonomy and control, adapting communication styles across cultures, and managing performance in diverse teams.
An interactive session encouraged participants to share experiences and practical insights, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and continuous learning.
The day concluded with a networking session, allowing delegates further opportunity to exchange ideas and explore business opportunities.
In the evening, delegates travelled to Chou Chou for the gala dinner, where the formal programme gave way to informal networking in an elegant and relaxed setting.
The Annual General Meeting provided important updates on IPG activities and initiatives, alongside valuable contributions from members.
Roelf Odendaal presented a case study on multi-generational succession planning, illustrating how a fragmented international business structure was successfully consolidated into a robust, professionally governed organisation.
The presentation highlighted:
The case study demonstrated how careful planning can protect family wealth while ensuring long-term sustainability and compliance.
Brian Inkster delivered an engaging and thought-provoking session on artificial intelligence, focusing on the practical realities and limitations of generative AI.
The presentation emphasised that while AI can be a powerful tool, it must be used with caution, particularly in professional environments where accuracy and accountability are critical. The risks of “hallucinated” outputs and over-reliance on AI were highlighted, prompting delegates to consider how best to integrate AI responsibly into their practices.
In the afternoon, delegates participated in a “City Play Challenge”, exploring Luxembourg through a series of interactive and team-based activities. Divided into eight teams, participants completed a range of creative challenges while discovering the city’s landmarks.
Congratulations go to Gotham Survivor, who emerged as the winning team.
The conference concluded with a farewell dinner at Comme à la Maison, where delegates gathered to reflect on the past days. The evening provided a fitting end to a successful and engaging conference.
The Luxembourg Conference once again demonstrated the significance and value of the IPG network. We look forward to meeting again in Nice at the Autumn IPG conference.
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