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The Cayman Islands, a dependent territory of Great Britain, have become a popular business and financial centre, due largely to their status as a tax-free haven, and their well developed communications infrastructure. Unlike some other tax havens, there are no significant problems of money laundering and tax avoidance here, and there are strict government regulations which promote a stable and secure business environment.

Normal office hours are 8 a.m to 5 p.m. and banking hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Mondays to Fridays.

The majority of the population of 33,000 live on Grand Cayman, and the main business and financial capital, George Town, is located here. The official language of the Cayman Islands is English, spoken with a unique local lilt. Around two thirds of the population consists of expatriates, many from the US, Canada and the UK. There is a large strongly Christian local population, and meetings should never be arranged for Sundays, as many attend church on that day.

Although business attire is generally quite casual in the Cayman Islands, business suits should be worn when meeting bank executives, senior officials and heads of business, and when attending business functions. It is normal practice to shake hands with business contacts and to exchange business cards at the outset of a meeting.

There are a wide variety of communication and cultural styles in business in the Cayman Islands, due to the mix of nationalities who live and work here. Generally, the people are respectful and friendly and the culture is relaxed and informal. It is normal practice to address other people with their titles and surnames, as a sign of respect. Politeness and modesty are highly valued here.

Gifts are not commonly exchanged in business in the Cayman Islands, and government officials are not allowed to accept gifts, apart from diaries or calendars. In the private sector, small tokens of appreciation are acceptable, but expensive gifts are inappropriate.

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