Published in Private – Das Geld-Magazin 2/2026
Based on the article “How to Buy a Horse” by Agnieszka Kalinowska and Dr Ariel Sergio Davidoff
Understanding how to buy a horse requires more than enthusiasm for equestrian sport. For investors, family offices, and professionals, racehorse ownership represents a specialised asset class that combines financial opportunity with complex legal and regulatory considerations.
The global racehorse market offers multiple entry points. Investors may acquire a horse directly, participate through syndicates, structure ownership through corporate vehicles (SPVs), or enter into leasing arrangements. Each model involves different levels of control, risk exposure and tax implications, making early legal structuring essential.
As highlighted by Agnieszka Kalinowska and Dr Ariel Sergio Davidoff of Davidoff Law, proper due diligence is critical. This includes verifying title, reviewing contractual terms, conducting veterinary examinations and ensuring compliance with applicable racing authority regulations. In cross-border transactions, escrow arrangements are often used to mitigate counterparty risk and ensure the secure transfer of ownership.
Beyond acquisition, investors must consider ongoing costs such as training, insurance and veterinary care, as well as the inherent volatility of biological assets. While racehorses can generate returns through prize money and breeding income, they also require robust risk management and legal oversight.
The full article provides a comprehensive legal and practical overview of this evolving investment space. You can read or download the original publication here:
How to Buy a Horse – Legal Guide (PDF)
