RECOGNISING LEADERS AC ROSS THE GLOBAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY THROUGH THE WealthBriefing AWARDS PROGRAMME
The Twelfth Annual WealthBriefing Swiss Awards 2025
InvestCloud powers connected experiences through human-inspired, technology-forward platforms that enable wealth managers to work smarter, enrich relationships, and elevate financial outcomes.
Foreword
STEPHEN HARRIS CEO, WealthBriefing
In any industry, particularly one that is a witness to rigorous and exacting standards, there’s a need to give leading practitioners an opportunity to demonstrate excellence and be awarded for it. The longrunning WealthBriefing Swiss awards programme gives pre-eminent wealth management individuals and firms the opportunity to demonstrate and celebrate their success.
Producing an awards programme is a great honour and as well as a serious responsibility. The WealthBriefing Swiss awards programme highlights not only the unrivalled technical skills and client experience that give Swiss wealth management its unique character, but also the diversity and depth of the sector.
An increasingly important example is the way that technology now drives wealth management is given prominence in all WealthBriefing awards. The evolution of private banking and the growth of the external asset manager sector is also demonstrated in the different awards shown in these pages.
At the core of this programme is the judging process. Judges, whose names and roles are published on this news service’s website, are chosen for their experience, knowledge, independence and yes, willingness to ask awkward questions. We, at WealthBriefing, thank them for their diligence and professionalism.
The awards programme gives participants a chance to showcase their achievements; they also give winners an opportunity to explain to clients, colleagues and third-party associates, the value they add. My editorial colleagues relish shedding light on the winners, often inspirational individuals and teams who have something original and fresh to offer.
Above all, these demonstrate the finest qualities in an industry that has never been more important and valued by clients. These can be unsettling times – all the more reason for a strong and evolving wealth management sector.
Overview
Contents
Of The Swiss Wealth Management Sector
Despite well publicised challenges, Switzerland remains the world’s largest hub for cross-border wealth and has grown in line with its historical average of 4.8 per cent per annum having gained the most wealth in absolute dollar terms. Switzerland's wealth management sector, which stood at $2.6 trillion in 2023, is expected to rise at a compound average growth rate of 3.6 per cent up to 2028, according to Boston Consulting Group analysis 2024.
Switzerland now has one universal bank – UBS – but there remain substantial banks such as Julius Baer, Lombard Odier, Syz, REYL Intesa Sanpaolo and Edmond de Rothschild, to name a few. The country remains home to many banks which retain a strong family ownership structure which echoes the clientele they serve, many of these banks have been the recipient of WealthBriefing awards throughout the many years the we have run the programme. The richness of the eco system is further
enhanced by the presence of many international players, such as Citi Private Bank, HSBC Global Private Banking and Barclays Private Banking.
Like other financial centres, Swiss wealth management has been spurred on by the momentous implementation of financial technology. There is AI, for example. Zug, and its “crypto valley” is another part of the puzzle.
Switzerland’s standing as a fintech hub is established, and this highlights the country’s innovative strengths; this also provides new ways to deliver financial services.
Asset management, insurance and specialist trading platforms also contribute to the mix.
And with its standing as a
jurisdiction in an unsettled world and an enviable
the Alpine state
been well able
attract
and
RECENT RESEARCH OUTPUT
Technology & Operations Trends in Wealth Management 2024
(in partnership with Alpha FMC)
This 12th edition of WealthBriefing’s Technology & Operations Trends in Wealth Management report, created with Alpha FMC, provides a global overview of how digital transformation is reshaping the wealth management sector. Firms across various regions are leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and client experience, while navigating evolving client expectations, regulatory changes, and a complex economic environment.
Philanthropy Evolved: How High-NetWorth Individuals are Redefining Giving, Ethics and Impact (in partnership with Jersey Finance)
Philanthropy is undergoing a profound transformation as high-net-worth (HNW) individuals redefine traditional notions of giving, ethics, and impact. This report delves into these shifts, offering a comprehensive analysis of emerging trends, generational influences, and the evolving dynamics between wealth, altruism, and social responsibility.
The Bahamas: A Complete and Compelling Choice (in partnership with The Bahamas Financial Services Board)
The Bahamas stands out as a premier destination for business, blending political stability,
innovative financial structures, and an exceptional lifestyle. This report offers an in-depth exploration of its unique advantages as a financial hub, from wealth planning tools to cutting-edge FinTech initiatives, alongside its unparalleled appeal for high-net-worth individuals and global investors.
External
Asset Managers in Asia - New Directions for Rapidly-Expanding Sector (in partnership with UBS)
Our second report examining the growth of Asia’s EAM sector, covering both the powerhouses of Singapore and Hong Kong, and emerging markets like Thailand and the Philippines. This study looks at the growth prospects for independent advisors in the round as they seek to tap the region’s booming wealth and growing client acceptance of the EAM model.
Family Office Focus: An Update of the Industry's Efficiency in Accounting and Investment Analysis (in partnership with FundCount)
A deep dive into the key technological and operational challenges facing family offices in their accounting and investment analysis activities. Based on surveys and interviews among family offices managing over $72 billion in assets, this is an invaluable benchmarking tool for the sector which presents fascinating insights into future developments from a range of industry experts.
Winning Women in MENA
(in partnership with First Abu Dhabi Bank)
This ground breaking new research examines the growth of female entrepreneurship in the region. More specifically it looks at how women are driving family office strategy as well as the relationship between MENA’s UHNW female clients and the wealth management industry.
Applying Artificial Intelligence in Wealth Management - Compelling Use Cases
Across the Client Life Cycle
(in partnership with Finantix & EY)
This comprehensive report identifies elements of the institution and advisor’s workloads that are ripe for AI amelioration, and points the way for firms seeking to maximise the competitive advantages offered by new technologies. AI experts and senior industry executives enrich each chapter, answering crucial questions on risk, KYC/AML, compliance, portfolio management and more.
Technology Traps Wealth Managers Must Avoid (in partnership with EY)
With EY providing the overview, this report draws on the front-line experience of many of the technology sector’s biggest names, in recognition of the fact that they are the ones going in to solve wealth managers’ most pressing problems and have typically seen the ramifications of firms’ choices play out numerous times – not to mention in various contexts globally.
The Judging Panel
The WealthBriefing Swiss Awards 2025 programme was focused around three main category groupings: experts (individuals and teams), products and services for wealth managers and clients, and institutions of all sizes and types in the Swiss market.
Independence, integrity and genuine insight are the watchwords of the judging process with the judging panels made up of some of the industry’s top trusted advisors and bankers.
MARC BERGER Partner EY
PHILIPPE BONGRAND Chief Executive Officer FNZ
CÉCILE CIVIALE VUILLIER CEO, Private Client Group Head Trustconsult Group S.A
STEVE DYSON Director Investment & Wealth Management Consultants
CARMEN KIAVILA CEO & Founder Kiavila Avocats
MARK MILES Partner Aon
MAXIME SABIAUX CEO Societe Generale Private Banking Switzerland
JAMES DAY Founder and Managing Director Peritus Investment Consultancy
VINICIUS GEROMEL Founder Aurea Global Investments SA
LAURENCE MANDRILE AGUIRRE Managing Director Citi Private Bank
DANIEL MÜLLER Partner and Global Wealth Management Leader PwC
RAY SOUDAH Founding Partner and Chairman MilleniumAssociates
JUDITH CHATOO Executive Director
Saffery Trust (Suisse) S.A.
PIERRE DUPONT
Managing Partner WIZE by TeamWork
XAVIER ISAAC Co-Founder and CEO Accuro
ANDREW MCCALLUM Senior Partner Rawlinson & Hunter
JEAN-CHRISTOPHE PERNOLLET
Chief Risk Officer
Edmond de Rothschild Group
MATTHEW SPENCER Advisor Various
The Judging Panel
PATRICK STAUBER Group Chief Executive Officer
Marcuard Heritage
MIKE TOOLE Owner Director
Elterwater Consulting Ltd
DAVID WILSON Partner
Schellenberg Wittmer
PHILIPPE STEFFEN Managing Director Reyl Intesa Sanpaolo
SYZ Head of Private Banking Syz Group
TOBIAS WAGNER Founding Partner & CEO Calliopa Capital
BRUCE WEATHERILL Chief Executive Weatherill Consulting
NICOLAS
WINNER: Artemon Capital Partners AG
WINNER: Accuro
WINNER: Alpen Partners AG
WINNER: Azqore
WINNER: James Persse - Barclays Private Bank
WINNER: Baker McKenzie Switzerland
WINNER: Barclays Private Bank
DIFFERENT BY DESIGN
Accuro specialises in trust structures for high net worth individuals and families seeking to responsibly preserve wealth across generations.
Being founder, management and staff owned, Accuro has the freedom to pursue its mission with passion. The way we operate and who we partner with, can only be made possible by our independence.
Accuro. We Care.
Accuro offers trustee, corporate administration and private office services to families and entrepreneurs globally, and take responsibility for the implementation and the management of a wide variety of wealth planning structures, with sustainability and purpose at the heart of our strategy and culture.
We are proud to be 100% owned by our founders, management and staff, the latter through an EBT holding 9.4% of the Group. This innovative ownership structure aligns our team with our philosophy and values as a firm.
What was the winning formula of your firm/you that explains why you won?
When trustees think about the “best interests” of their beneficiaries, it is typically the financial interests of the beneficiaries that they consider.
Trusts are commonly a means of imparting wealth and security from one generation to the next. But in a world that is changing before our eyes, from a human-made climate crisis to global pandemics, wars and unprecedented wealth inequality, financial security is no longer enough.
Clients expect strong performance from their assets, but they, and their children and grandchildren are increasingly aware of and concerned about global crises and are keen that their legacy be a contribution to the solution while avoiding the potential pitfalls of unevolved businesses. Being mindful of individual investments and overarching strategies isn’t just about being good, it is good business too.
What sort of challenges did you surmount to reach this level and how have you been able to succeed in such fast-moving circumstances?
We recognise that unless the wider industry and its systems also evolve to be more aligned to ESG, true impact will be limited. We are heavily involved in initiatives to raise industry-wide expertise in sustainable finance, contributing to the development of a strong ecosystem and platform for delivering positive social and planetary change.
Accuro sponsored the creation of Transforming Finance for Good, a pioneering training course specifically focused on sustainable finance for offshore financial centres. This programme upskills and empowers financial services practitioners.
Last year we worked with sustainable consultancy graduates of the EADA business school to find an accessible way to frame the sustainable finance narrative with clients.
Through our involvement in the STEP inter-disciplinary working group on the Responsible Stewardship of Wealth, our Geneva-based CEO and his cocollaborators are spreading the message that trust structures can and should be compatible with a more holistic and stakeholder-considerate approach to wealth management.
What are you going to do to remain competitive and stay ahead?
At Accuro, rather than gate-keeping knowledge to preserve our professional edge, we believe in shedding light on sustainable finance, using our voice and our values to catalyse systemic change.
We will stay ahead by delivering a consistent high calibre of work, maintaining our strong client relationships (with strict limits on the number of clients per director), continuing to lead the sustainable finance conversation, and collaborate with regulators to encourage frameworks to guide and uplift our whole industry.
How do you hope your firm will benefit from getting this award?
This award will help raise awareness of our efforts both in Switzerland and in the wider industry. Not only does it highlight our commitments and attract likeminded talent and clients, we believe that it can also be a lever for inspiration and systemic change within our professional networks.
Natacha Onawelho-Loren Managing Director Accuro
Pierre Gabris Founder Managing Partner
Alpen Partners | Alpen Partners International
Alpen Partners | Alpen Partners International
Hard Work, No Magic!
What contributed to your firm's success and winning formula?
Alpen Partners’ success stems from our specialised focus on investment consultancy and wealth management, driven by a client-centric approach and a commitment to excellence. As an independent Swiss wealth management boutique with offices in Zurich, Geneva, Lugano, and Bäch/Wollerau, we deliver tailored solutions that aim to meet the unique financial objectives of each client. Our highly skilled team of financial advisors, portfolio managers, global wealth planners, and private client advisors work collaboratively to provide comprehensive, award-winning services.
We cater to a diverse international clientele from over 30 countries including Canada where we are licensed as a Portfolio Manager. Through our SEC-registered entity, Alpen Partners International, we serve American clients in the US and abroad. Above all, we uphold our fiduciary duty, placing our clients’ interests at the core of every decision and providing a disciplined, transparent approach to wealth management. As we often say, "Hard work, no magic!" –our success is the result of dedication, expertise, and a relentless commitment to delivering exceptional value for our clients.
How did your colleagues contribute to your success?
In the field of investment consultancy and wealth management, our team's collective expertise and collaboration are key to our success. Each member brings a unique skill set, from portfolio management to wealth planning, and their ability to work in unison allows us to deliver customised, sophisticated strategies that address the complex financial needs of our clients.
This collaborative approach not only enhances our technical capabilities but also strengthens our client relationships, creating an environment where professionalism meets personal attention. We prioritise building long-term trust through transparent communication, aligning our efforts with clients’ goals, with a
• Investment Consultancy
• Wealth Planning Team Winner
Pierre Gabris Founder & Managing Partner Alpen Partners AG
focus on making decisions that are aligned with their best interests. It is this spirit of teamwork and dedication that distinguishes our wealth management services, offering exceptional value while maintaining an approachable and client-focused atmosphere.
What's your strategy to stay competitive and ahead?
To maintain our leadership in investment consultancy and wealth management, as well as other aspects of our wealth management services we place a strong emphasis on building a highly competent, diverse team of experts across all areas of the business. Our selective recruitment process ensures that every team member has the specialised knowledge and experience needed to serve our clients appropriately. We prioritise regulatory compliance and transparency, ensuring that our operations adhere to the highest standards.
Our strategy for staying competitive is rooted in our commitment to delivering individualised and holistic wealth management solutions. Rather than relying on standardised products, we take a highly personalised approach, adapting to each client’s unique financial goals and evolving needs. By staying agile and proactive, we aim to anticipate industry trends and leverage innovation to create tailored strategies that align with clients’ long-term objectives. This enables us to not only stay ahead of the curve but also to offer personalised, client-focused service, distinguishing us in a competitive market.
What does receiving this award mean to you and your team?
Receiving an award is a proud moment for our entire team, as it reflects not just individual achievements but the collective dedication that drives our success. It is a recognition of the hard work, expertise, and collaboration of every team member. Such accolades strengthen our sense of pride and unity, reinforcing the idea that our success is the result of a shared journey. They motivate us to continue striving for excellence, reminding us that the combined efforts of each team member play a pivotal role in shaping our firm's reputation and ongoing success.
“I want to break free.”
Unlock exclusive investment opportunities in private real estate credit and private corporate credit to elevate your portfolio.
Artemon Capital Partners: Breaking Barriers In Private Markets With Innovative Investment Solutions
Artemon Capital Partners is an independent investment and advisory boutique based in Zurich. Founded in 2021, we offer attractive investment opportunities that provide financing for entrepreneurs and real estate, combining innovation with robust market expertise. At the heart of our approach is our flagship product, which focuses on investing in Swiss mortgage-backed mezzanine loans.
We are deeply honored to have won the WealthBriefing Swiss Award in the 'Private Markets Investment Specialist' category, which serves as a testament to our dedication to bridging the financing gap in real estate and entrepreneurship, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this achievement possible!
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
As sailing enthusiasts, the name “artemon” perfectly embodies our ethos and explains why we were able to achieve this milestone. An “artemon” is an innovative foremast sail from Ancient Greece that enables ships to become faster, more agile, and more efficient. Similarly, our firm provides clients with added flexibility through innovative financing solutions, empowering them to be faster, more agile, and more efficient. Our “all hands on deck” approach ensures every financing project receives focused attention and customised solutions, fostering long-term relationships and earning consistent referrals from leading financial institutions in Switzerland. Additionally, innovative products like our comanaged Daneo Swiss Residential Property Debt Fund highlight our ability to address market needs while delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns, further solidifying our role as problemsolvers in private markets.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
Increasing regulation for our banking partners, a higher interest
Manuel Hamel - Partner & Co-founder
Samuel L. Krämer - Partner & Co-founder
Artemon Capital Partners AG
• Private Market Investment Specialist Winner
rate environment, and the ripple effects of the UBS/CS merger were among the key challenges we faced last year. These hurdles motivated us to develop innovative and bespoke financing structures while expanding our network of partners to build relationships with over 200 professional and institutional investors. This, combined with rigorous market analysis and a deep understanding of client needs, allowed us to craft resilient solutions. The key lesson for us is simple: maintaining a focus on quality and strong partnerships has been critical to overcoming obstacles and delivering successful outcomes for our clients.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
This award highlights our team’s hard work and underscores the trust our investors, clients, and partners place in us to deliver exceptional results. It enhances our credibility in private markets and serves as a powerful endorsement of our expertise, instilling pride and motivation among our team – especially when reflecting on the prestigious award winners in previous years. For prospective clients and partners, it confirms Artemon’s ability to deliver measurable value. We firmly believe that this recognition will open doors to new collaborations, strengthen our position in private markets, and amplify our impact.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
Within our area of expertise, we anticipate that the wealth management sector will continue shifting toward private markets solutions, particularly in private credit. Evolving client expectations will increasingly demand personalised, impact-driven solutions in private markets, where investments align with clients’ values. Beyond private markets, we believe artificial intelligence will further reshape the industry, enhancing efficiency and driving more informed investment decisions.
Avaloq Recognised For Excellence In Transaction Processing Solutions
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
The Avaloq platform integrates core banking, digital banking channels and investment management software into a unified system. Our platform supports more than 170 financial institutions worldwide, with over CHF 4 trillion in client assets managed with Avaloq software.
The core banking capabilities of the Avaloq platform streamline transaction processing with a high degree of automation and standardisation. Thanks to our platform, our clients can achieve 99% straight-through processing (STP) rates for payments with as close to 100% service accuracy, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimising the risk of human error.
Our clients benefit from our continuous investment in the platform, combined with our understanding of the wealth management sector. This year, we proudly celebrate our 40-year anniversary, marking four decades of commitment to innovation and client success.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
Avaloq invests 25% of annual software revenue in R&D to enhance the platform’s capabilities, ensuring our clients stay at the forefront of technology. In addition, we actively monitor regulatory changes across markets and integrate updates directly into our platform, enabling our clients to stay compliant without diverting focus from their core operations.
Avaloq
• Transaction Processing Solution Winner
Our open platform, extensive partner ecosystem and advanced API technology allow our clients to seamlessly roll out new services and integrate third-party applications, harmonised on a single platform with a unified data model for consistency across operations.
Furthermore, our client community benefits from shared insights and joint innovation projects, contributing to the platform’s continuous, long-term development.
Where do you see the wealth management sector going in the next five years?
We expect wealth managers to face increased competition and margin pressure, driving demand for highly efficient, standardised operations. Financial institutions will need to leverage technology to boost operational efficiency and deliver personalised client experiences.
Digitalisation will continue to gain traction in the sector, with a focus on automation, data analytics and artificial intelligence. These technologies will enable wealth managers to provide tailored advice and solutions that meet evolving client expectations at scale. Additionally, wealth managers will have to deal with increasingly complex regulatory requirements, reinforcing the need for integrated compliance solutions that can adapt to evolving standards.
Our platform’s flexibility and comprehensive capabilities ensure that our clients can confidently navigate these changes, maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic market.
Redefining Private Banking with Cutting-Edge Technology and Client-Centric Solutions
Based in Switzerland, Azqore is a digital service provider specialised in the outsourcing of information systems and the processing of banking transactions for private banking players. For more than thirty years, Azqore has been offering Software as a Service (SaaS) innovative solutions to transform, digitise and improve the client experience of private banking players. Azqore serves today 25 clients in Europe and Asia totaling more than CHF 200 billion in AuM with proven experience of numerous migrations. Azqore is a subsidiary of Indosuez Wealth Management (the global wealth management brand of the Crédit Agricole Group and a leader in the field) and Capgemini (a global leader in consulting, technology services and digital transformation). With the support of these two shareholders, Azqore can combine indepth banking expertise with a leading edge technological approach.
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
It is mainly due to the following key factors:
• Versatile and Comprehensive Solutions combined with a strong commitment to technological evolution: Azqore offers a versatile Front-to-Back Banking Platform (S2i and its ecosystem) available in both SaaS and BPO modes. We allocate an annual budget of over CHF 40 million for IT investments to keep our platform cutting-edge, aligned with functional requirements and ahead of digital advancements. This significant investment ensures that all our clients operate on the latest version of our platform, delivering economies of scale and robust frameworks validated by ISO 9001 / 27001 and ISAE 3000 / 3402 certifications.
• Strong Customer-centric mindset: Our commitment to understanding our clients' needs and going the extra mile to support their success makes us a trusted partner in wealth management. We prioritise our clients' unique needs, offering tailored solutions and
personalised support. As a subsidiary of Indosuez Wealth Management, this customer-centric approach and deep understanding of Wealth Management are strongly rooted in our DNA.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
On one side, we will maintain our investments in functional and regulatory evolutions. While this might seem fundamental, we firmly believe that excelling in these essential areas is crucial. Concurrently, we are making significant investments in transforming our Wealth Management Platform to seamlessly integrate and support the challenges and opportunities brought by AI, data-driven use cases, and digital channels in the Wealth Management sector. This transformation is not only technological but also encompasses human and organisational aspects. Our goal is to ensure a holistic evolution that prepares us to meet the future demands of the industry comprehensively.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
In the next five years, the wealth management industry will undergo a significant shift towards digital and data-driven solutions, with the added challenge of efficiently integrating AI into its processes. Regulatory evolution will become increasingly complex, driven by factors such as ESG, cybersecurity, and customer protection. Our mission is clear: to support tomorrow’s private bankers and wealth managers as they navigate this rapidly changing environment. Our customers seek continuously evolving IT platforms that offer sophisticated user experiences and effective digital solutions for proper data management. By staying at the forefront of digital advancements and integrating AI and data analytics into our offerings, Azqore is well-positioned to be the preferred partner for private banks and wealth managers in need of digital and operational transformation.
Sébastien Buchard Chief Sales & Client Officer, Director & Executive Committee Member Azqore
• Technology Outsourcing Solution
Guided by 75 years of experience. Fully focused on your future.
For 75 years, Baker McKenzie has helped clients navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world.
From the civil rights movement to fall of the Berlin wall and the invention of the world wide web, we have witnessed fundamental shifts in business and society over the last eight decades. As the original global law firm, we have been steadfast in solving our clients’ problems — wherever they are in the world — by providing a unique blend of local expertise and global context. Additionally, we leverage cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence to find innovative solutions for the modern wealth owner.
Our international tax, private client and global wealth management practice in Switzerland, along with our esteemed London team, specializes in providing US, UK and Swiss tax and legal advice to individuals and institutional clients. Our team brings a truly cross-border approach to solving clients’ multijurisdictional and cross-border issues. We coordinate tax and legal input from our network in 45 jurisdictions, drawing upon our global expertise and strong network of leading locally based firms to devise holistic and multijurisdictional solutions.
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Our ability to simplify legal complexity, foresee global risks and identify planning opportunities makes us the trusted advisers of choice for many of the world’s leading wealth management providers, family offices and private clients.
Navigating Legal Complexities: Baker Mckenzie's Approach To Private Wealth Management
Why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Our Private Wealth Management Practice in Switzerland comprises seven partners and 15 qualified lawyers, supported by economists and colleagues from other offices. We are able to assist our private clients, their family offices and businesses, as well as their other trusted advisers, to successfully navigate not only the Swiss, US and UK tax and legal environment with our team based in Switzerland, but also many of the other jurisdictions in which our firm practices (74 offices in 45 jurisdictions).
Our ability to simplify legal complexity, foresee global risks, identify planning opportunities and, most importantly, provide practical recommendations makes us the trusted advisers to many leading private clients and families, family offices, closely held businesses and key industry service providers. Our culture prioritises innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement. By staying ahead of industry trends and maintaining a client-centric approach, we have been able to deliver exceptional legal services that meet the evolving needs of our clients
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We aim to maintain our leading position by continuously providing legal advice to tackle complex, multijurisdictional issues with the
Winner
• Legal Team
Baker McKenzie Switzerland
highest standards and by sharing our expertise and insights, to keep our clients and trusted partners informed about the latest legal, tax and regulatory developments. Our lawyers actively contribute to multiple publications and present at various webinars and seminars. By maintaining this proactive approach, we not only enhance our clients' and network's knowledge but also reinforce our position as thought leaders in the industry.
Additionally, we leverage technology to enhance our service delivery and improve efficiency by adopting advanced legal tech solutions. We streamline our processes, manage client interactions more effectively, and provide timely and accurate advice.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
One of the key trends is ongoing digital transformation. Wealth management firms are increasingly leveraging technology to enhance client experience and streamline operations. The adoption of advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning and other technological tools, facilitates these expectations more effectively. Additionally, private clients and investors have become more conscious of the long-term impact of their investments and their legacy. Thus, firms are integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into their investment strategies.
There is also an increased focus on regulatory requirements and, all too often, regulatory changes, which require both firms and clients to adapt and ensure compliance while maintaining flexibility and innovation. Navigating new rules and standards in the evolving regulatory landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. The changing regulatory landscape also influences movement across borders and into and out of different jurisdictions. The wealth management sector and its clients continue to expand and change their markets, jurisdictions and residencies, seeking opportunities and minimising risk. This constant cycle of expansion and reorientation requires a deep understanding of local markets and the ability to offer customised solutions that meet unique regional needs.
WINNER: DECALIA SA
WINNER: Bedrock SA
WINNER: Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (Suisse)
WINNER: Maryann Umoren Selfe - Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (Suisse)
WINNER: ERI
WINNER: Deloitte
WINNER: Edmond de Rothschild
WINNER: FactSet
BIL Suisse: A Boutique Bank
Redefining Excellence in Wealth Management and Corporate Advisory
Lionel Pilloud Head of Geneva Branch Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (Suisse)
• Client Initiative
• Client Service
• Credit Provider
• Women in Wealth Management (Individual)
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
In Switzerland, BIL operates as a boutique bank - a smaller financial institution focused on specialised services rather than a full spectrum of banking solutions - offering innovative wealth solutions tailored to internationally active entrepreneurial clients and families. This boutique approach allows BIL Suisse to efficiently provide highly personalised services that address both corporate and private wealth management needs of our clients. BIL Suisse differentiates itself through its unique combination of extensive expertise in Wealth Management and Global Advisory (Corporate Finance), paired with a strong commitment to financing. This integrated approach offers comprehensive solutions for highnet-worth individuals and institutions, positioning BIL Suisse as a trusted partner, especially valued in Switzerland for its tailored service and responsiveness. This approach is summed up in our mantra; big enough to matter, small enough to care.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
The dedication and expertise of BIL Suisse's team have been instrumental in achieving these awards. Colleagues across the organisation collaborate seamlessly to provide exceptional service and innovative solutions for our sophisticated clients. The team’s deep industry knowledge, combined with a passion for excellence, ensures that clients receive the highest level of support and guidance. BIL Suisse's culture of continuous learning and professional development further empowers employees to excel in their roles and help us to meet our clients’ needs.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
As the head of BIL Suisse in Geneva, a key aspect of keeping ahead is to harness the growth of the industry and invest in this promising region. BIL Suisse's Geneva branch is poised for significant growth, driven by the Group's commitment to investing in this promising region through hiring and investments in our soon-to-be-opened new premise. Geneva, renowned for its dynamic financial sector and international clientele, offers a wealth of opportunities for expansion. BIL Suisse's strategic focus on the Geneva branch includes enhancing its service offerings, leveraging local expertise, and deepening client relationships. This investment underscores BIL Suisse's dedication to fostering regional growth and delivering tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of Geneva's diverse client base.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Winning this award reinforces BIL Suisse's commitment to excellence and motivates the team to continue striving for the highest standards. The recognition serves as a testament to the bank's efforts and inspires confidence among clients and stakeholders. As BIL Suisse looks to the future, it remains focused on leveraging innovation, expanding its services, to build on its 40-year legacy in Switzerland to establish lasting client relationships.
Barclays Private Bank: Leading with Excellence, Innovation, and Client-Centric Solutions
Rahim Daya CEO
Barclays Private Bank
Barclays Private Bank, entrusted in the primary global wealth hubs and corridors, provides comprehensive specialist investment, banking, lending and wealth advisory services to the world’s most influential individuals and their families, alongside Trusts, Charities and Family Offices.
By unlocking the full power of the wider Barclays Group, with a history of more than 300 years, we’re able to tailor opportunities to support our clients’ unique ambitions and surround them with the experts they need, enabling them to invest in the future and influence tomorrow with confidence.
What was the way your colleagues made the difference?
Our colleagues operate as one team. They consistently go above and beyond to build lasting client relationships based on trust and reliability, and it is their passion and expertise that truly make the difference, putting the client experience at the heart of everything we do.
Please explain why you/your business was able to achieve this award-winning level?
Our leadership team shares a vision of excellence that drives our organisation. We prioritise collaboration and a clientfirst mindset, fostering accountability and empowering teams with the right tools to deliver outstanding results. This award reflects their strategic foresight and commitment to excellence.
While we thrive as a team, James Persse, Head of Swiss Private Banking, has been recognised as the Leading Individual. His unwavering commitment to excellence, client service, and talent development sets him apart. A rare talent with a long tenure at Barclays, we are fortunate to have him. Finally, Barclays Private Bank’s Influence Tomorrow brand identity is about empowering clients to shape the future, not just invest in it. This repositioning goes beyond traditional banking, reflecting our commitment to purposeful influence and meaningful change. I am thrilled that our marketing campaign, embodying Influence Tomorrow and prominently displayed across Switzerland, including Geneva airport, has been recognised as a winner in this category.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
• Private Bank Leadership Team
• UHNW Team (Swiss Domestic Clients)
• Marketing Campaign or Team
• Leading Individual Winner
Our Swiss Domestic Team blends a global perspective with deep local expertise. We have invested in the Swiss market for years, opening a seasonal office in Verbier in 2023. Our commitment extends to supporting local sustainability initiatives and hosting bespoke Next Gen events, equipping future inheritors of family businesses with knowledge on investing and philanthropy. We deliver global solutions, leveraging Barclays Group’s expertise and tailoring them to the local market.
There are two significant elements that will drive the next five years and beyond. The first is the level of wealth transfer that commenced a few years ago and will continue for the next decade. In my opinion, there is a real need to get in front of the next generation in a meaningful way. The conversations and themes covered are different to the ones we have with their parents or grandparents, and the needs and expectations of this audience demographic are different. As a result, the relationships the next generations have with their banks will be different. We need to provide educational content, be easy to navigate and consistently add value – this will be the difference in the coming years.
The second, and somewhat connected to the above, is sustainability, a topic of increasing interest to clients of all generations, geographies and risk profiles. Whether it be looking at the impact of climate here in Switzerland or food security in other parts of the world – clients are not ignoring these fundamental changes in the world and banks will need to be prepared to offer meaningful solutions.
Bedrock: Transforming Wealth Management for Families and Institutions
FWinner
• Private Investment Office/ Multi-Family Office
Maurice Ephrati Managing Director Bedrock SA
ounded in Geneva in 2004, Bedrock is a distinguished multifamily office with a presence in London, Geneva, and Monaco. Specialising in managing wealth and assets for a select group of families and institutions, the firm oversees more than CHF 5 billion in client assets. Built on the foundation of trust and expertise, Bedrock’s founding partners bring over 20 years of shared experience, which has cemented the firm's reputation as an industry leader.
Bedrock offers a comprehensive, 360-degree suite of services, ranging from portfolio management and private market investments to streamlining clients' daily affairs. Authorised by FINMA, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority, the firm ensures regulatory compliance while delivering tailored solutions to meet each client’s unique needs.
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Achieving an award-winning standard is no accident. Bedrock’s success is rooted in a deep understanding that wealth is personal. Every client has a unique perspective on their financial journey, and the firm takes the time to uncover what truly matters to each individual or family. This bespoke approach, coupled with the ability to support clients across financial, intellectual, and social dimensions, sets Bedrock apart.
Bedrock’s mission is to help clients clarify their values and the purpose behind their wealth. This enables the transformation of their capital into impactful, life-enhancing wealth. Whether by offering financial solutions or non-financial guidance, the firm ensures that every decision aligns with the client’s goals and aspirations.
One of Bedrock’s key differentiators lies in its commitment to alignment of interests. The founding partners and their families invest alongside their clients, guaranteeing that the same level of care and excellence is applied to client portfolios as to their own. This shared journey fosters a sense of trust and transparency that is rare in the wealth management industry.
Please describe how your colleagues made a difference?
Bedrock’s success also reflects the dedication and passion of its team. The firm's values – authenticity, dedication to people, and an unwavering commitment to excellence – are deeply ingrained in its culture. Many team members have been with Bedrock since its inception, and the three founding partners remain actively involved in day-to-day operations. This long-term continuity creates stability and consistency, which clients rely upon.
The firm’s culture extends beyond serving clients. It prioritises the development of its team, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to Bedrock’s mission of creating impactful wealth. Celebrating its 20th anniversary last year, Bedrock remains as committed as ever to delivering life-enhancing solutions.
What are you going to do to remain competitive and stay ahead?
Bedrock understands that innovation is key to remaining competitive. To this end, the firm has embraced forward-thinking initiatives that transcend traditional wealth management.
Educational programmes, such as exclusive Q&A sessions with fund managers, provide clients with valuable insights into investment strategies and industry trends. The Family Wealth Playbook equips families with practical tools to navigate wealth management, while collaborations with academic institutions like IE University and King’s College London ensure access to thought leadership.
Bedrock also fosters connections through initiatives like the Female Principals Lunch Series, which empowers next-generation female leaders, and partnerships with organisations like Nexus and Horizons to support millennial clients.
Anticipating shifts in the financial landscape, Bedrock continues to introduce new services, such as the Endowment model, while creating strategic roles to enhance client offerings. By blending innovation, education, and a personal touch, Bedrock ensures its clients stay ahead in an ever-changing world.
The Deloitte International Wealth Management Centre Ranking 2024
Seismic waves impacting leading financial centres
Switzerland still #1 in Global Wealth Management
With $2.2 trillion managed international assets, Switzerland continues to lead globally, both in terms of size and competitiveness.
To stay on top, Switzerland must develop new strategies, foster innovation, and refine regulatory approaches.
Discover the insights shaping the future of wealth management in our latest study.
Deloitte.com/ch/wealth
Excellence in Wealth Management: Driving Innovation and Collaboration, and Adapting to Evolving Client Needs
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Our success as Deloitte’s Global Wealth Management Centre of Excellence is built on our team’s deep expertise, passion for wealth management, and dedication to the industry. Over years of collaboration with senior executives, we have delivered actionable insights and impactful outcomes.
The International Wealth Management Centre Ranking, our most widely read study, equips industry leaders with the critical information needed to optimise their global footprint. By leveraging the unique strengths of our numerous local experts, we provide targeted recommendations that enhance competitive positioning and drive strategic success.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
As Deloitte's Global Wealth Management Centre of Excellence, we are steadfast in our commitment to thought leadership, delivering flagship studies that consistently set global standards. Each year, we challenge ourselves to enhance and refine our research, incorporating new trends such as generative AI and exploring relevant topics like the sources of wealth flows to address the evolving dynamics of global wealth management markets.
Our studies are informed by regular engagement with senior executives of leading financial institutions and central bank representatives, ensuring that they reflect the most pressing industry challenges and opportunities. By integrating advanced methodologies and fresh perspectives, we provide senior decision-makers with actionable insights that shape the future of Swiss and global wealth management, solidifying the indispensable value of our work.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Winning this award is a profound recognition of the immense dedication, passion, and effort that our team has invested in our work. We are humbled by this award, and it reaffirms our commitment to remaining at the forefront of the developments in the wealth management industry.
Jean-Francois Lagasse - Managing Partner, Swiss Financial Services Industry
Patrik Spiller - Partner Deloitte
Winner
• Outstanding Contribution to Wealth Management Thought Leadership (Company)
We are immensely proud of this achievement, which underscores our position as a trusted and leading advisor and enhances our standing within global wealth management markets. This accolade serves as a powerful motivation to continue delivering exceptional value, fostering innovation, and strengthening our client service excellence and foresight.
Where do you see wealth management going in the next five years?
Our ranking underscores the challenging environment for International Wealth Management Centres. While global financial wealth grew at 4.4% annually from 2013 to 2023, international wealth flows have remained flat.
We anticipate that international wealth flows will remain relatively stable, while leading global wealth managers will continue to strategically strengthen their local banks in key growth regions. To capitalise on growth opportunities, these wealth managers are prioritising:
• Investing in innovative client interaction models to enhance engagement and personalisation to enable, for example, predictive analytics in customising investment recommendations.
• Developing local partnerships to expand and optimise distribution capabilities to address distinct needs and preferences of emerging next-gen client segments.
• Offering advanced solutions, including private market investments, crypto assets such as exchange traded crypto funds, and bespoke wealth strategies tailored to client needs.
Consolidation through mergers and acquisitions is increasingly key to staying competitive. Hubs like Singapore and the US are set to strengthen their positions, while Switzerland must prioritise regulatory reform and digital transformation to maintain leadership. The future will be global, tech-driven, and personalised –favouring firms that embrace innovation and adaptability.
How Compliance and Technology Drive Resilience in Financial Services
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Compliance has become a critical priority for private banks in Switzerland, now more than ever.
Effectively monitoring and mitigating compliance risks, as well as automating compliance checks and processes, is essential to controlling operational costs while maintaining workforce efficiency.
As regulatory constraints tighten both within and beyond Europe, the impact on banks is significant. Manual compliance processes are not only error-prone but also time-consuming, diverting relationship managers from focusing on high-value services for their clients.
With a commitment to efficiency and exceptional customer experience, ERI delivers best-in-class technology solutions that automate complex and labour-intensive processes. These solutions ensure that the services banks provide to their clients remain fully compliant with the latest regulations, allowing banks to operate confidently in an increasingly demanding regulatory landscape.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
The key to providing our clients with a seamless customer experience lies in ensuring our teams stay up-to-date with the latest regulations in Switzerland and beyond.
To truly support private bankers and wealth managers, we must anticipate the challenges they will face. This proactive approach allows us to identify, well in advance, the necessary actions and solutions to implement. By doing so, we enable banks to navigate regulatory changes with confidence and peace of mind. Maintaining high standards in this dynamic environment requires leveraging cutting-edge technology solutions tailored specifically to the needs of private banks. Automation plays a crucial role in streamlining compliance processes, reducing manual errors, and increasing efficiency.
Jean-Philippe Bersier Director of Sales & Marketing ERI
Advanced data analytics can offer predictive insights, helping banks stay ahead of regulatory changes and market trends.
Additionally, integrating secure and user-friendly platforms ensures that relationship managers can focus on delivering personalised, high-value services to their clients. By continuously investing in innovative technology and fostering a culture of adaptability, private banks in Switzerland can meet evolving regulatory demands while upholding exceptional service standards.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
We always are extremely proud when winning an award as this is a true accomplishment and recognition of our teams’ hard work. It is a testimonial of our achievements showcasing the successful use cases of our clients.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
The wealth management sector is set to undergo significant transformation over the next five years, driven by technological advancements, shifting client expectations, and evolving regulatory landscapes. ERI is dedicated to continuously investing in its solutions to address the latest regulatory requirements while meeting the changing needs of its customers.
For example, leveraging data and AI to deliver tailored services, combined with digital tools and human expertise, will remain critical for successful interactions between clients and relationship managers. Additionally, adapting strategies to align with younger generations' preferences will be a key aspect of navigating the great wealth transfer.
These advancements will be further supported by open banking initiatives, ensuring the feasibility of global wealth solutions that accommodate cross-border assets.
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Leading the Future of Wealth Management: How Innovation and AI Drove Our Award-Winning Success
Why were you/your business able to reach this award-winning level?
Our success stems from a relentless focus on understanding our clients' needs and innovating around them. By embedding AI into our products, we’ve empowered wealth managers and clients alike, delivering efficiency, personalisation, and smarter decision-making tools. Winning these awards reflects the dedication of our team and their ability to turn complex problems into game-changing products.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Collaboration across teams was pivotal. From developers and product managers to designers and data scientists, everyone brought their expertise to bear. What stood out was their shared commitment to creating intuitive, impactful tools and fostering trust in AI by emphasising transparency and compliance with local regulations.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We’ll keep investing in R&D and deepening our collaboration with clients to identify emerging trends. Our focus will remain on scalable, modular solutions that adapt to evolving needs, supported by continuous improvements and a culture of innovation.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
Navigating the complexities of integrating AI responsibly required close attention to data security, regulatory compliance, and user
• Client Investment Application
• Innovative use of Artificial Intelligence Winner
adoption. By fostering cross-functional collaboration and client feedback loops, we addressed these head-on. The key lesson? Early alignment between strategy, technology, and compliance is nonnegotiable for success.
Whom do you look to, either inside or outside your business, for ideas and inspiration?
Internally, our users inspire us—they’re at the heart of everything we do. Externally, we draw from best practices in tech and finance, learning from leaders who’ve seamlessly blended innovation with trust in highly regulated industries.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
It’s a validation of our efforts and will motivate us to push boundaries even further. For our team, it’s a moment of pride, reinforcing that their hard work and creativity are making a meaningful impact. For our business, it enhances our credibility and strengthens our position as a trusted partner for the future of wealth management.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
We expect a greater convergence of technology and human expertise, with AI playing a vital role in hyper-personalised services and portfolio insights. Helping users address daily pain points and surfacing information and risks will be game-changing. Firms that embrace digital transformation while prioritising transparency and ethical practices will lead the way.
Etops
FactSet - Data, Analytics & Technology to Enhance Advisors’ Efficiency
Greg King Senior Director, Head of Wealth Management FactSet
• Portfolio Management Solution
What was the winning formula of your firm/you that explains why you won?
FactSet's investment in data quality and ability to connect it seamlessly with client portfolios and internal research help wealth managers uncover unique and actionable insights to reduce risk, operate more efficiently, comply with local regulations, and create a competitive edge to win and retain business.
More than half of our organisation is dedicated to data integrity and concordance. We integrate and offer 30+ FactSet-owned datasets and 1,000+ from third-party data providers. FactSet’s flexible technology lets users consume data in a variety of ways, including via data feeds, a configurable mobile and desktop platform, digital portals, APIs, and more. Our unique data symbology links and aggregates a variety of content sources to ensure consistency, transparency, and data integrity.
Where do you see the wealth management industry and your part of it going in the next five years?
We are not afraid to say that we are client obsessed, we spend a lot of time gathering their needs and answering their requests. Our clients say it best, as Jamie Coulter, Executive Vice President, Wealth Management of Raymond James Ltd. shared:
“FactSet’s solution raises the bar in our ability to deliver best in class market data and provide for our advisors and the individual investors and families they serve.”
There are a few trends we see and are addressing across our suite of data and solutions:
• Wealth firms are looking for fewer and deeper relationships with their technology providers. They are searching for more strategic vendors they can
consolidate with that can efficiently fit in and connect with the firms’ technology stack and to ultimately lower their total cost of ownership.
• Wealth organisations want to create greater capacity for their Advisors by facilitating the much-needed collaboration between the firm’s home office research and due diligence teams and the Advisors in the field. The emphasis is on helping Advisors spend less time researching securities and building portfolios and more time working with their existing clients and onboarding new relationships.
• Investors expect personalised advice, transparency, and communication from their financial advisor. Advisors need to bridge the gap between in-person and digital interactions and find the appropriate mix of both. Our open and flexible technology provides user friendly level of detail on the wealth institution’s online client portals, creating an engaging and personalised digital experience for their end-clients, and powered by the same solutions provider.
• Generative AI is revolutionising how financial advisors interact with their technology solutions, understanding their needs and building interfaces to automate manual tasks, so that Advisors can focus on high value activities, cultivate deeper relationships with their clients, and increase efficiency is one of our biggest short-term priorities.
• Of course, providing transparency and education on how the market impact investors’ financial goals will remain a focal point for financial advisors – and our role is to enable that communication with sophisticated data and analytics. This means exposing the appropriate level of detail on the wealth institution’s online client portal, creating an engaging and personised digital experience for their end-clients, powered by the same solutions provider, allowing Advisors and clients to be on the same page.
WE FOCUS ON RESPONSIBLE FINANCE
SO YOU CAN FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE WEALTH.
Shaped by more than 150 years of experience supporting families and entrepreneurs around the world, Indosuez Wealth Management offers in Switzerland via its Swiss entities a tailor-made approach that allows their clients to build, manage, protect and pass on their wealth according to their goals and ambitions. In coordination with the Crédit Agricole group, their employees are committed to addressing environmental, social, and governance issues to pursue consistent progress and ceaseless value creation. Indosuez Wealth Management is the global wealth management brand of the Crédit Agricole group and is present in Switzerland via CA Indosuez (Switzerland) SA. As a whole, the Indosuez Wealth Management group is present in 16 locations and counts nearly 4’500 employees. CA Indosuez (Switzerland) SA is headquartered at 4, Quai Général Guisan - Case Postale 5260 - CH-1211 Geneva 11. CA Indosuez (Switzerland) SA is licensed by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) as a bank and securities house and is supervised by this authority. ca-indosuez.ch
Indosuez: A Year of Transformation, Growth and Industry Leadership
Indosuez Wealth Management's ability to achieve an award-winning level is a result of our commitment to transformation, excellence, and client-centricity. 2024 marked significant transformations across various dimensions – commercial dynamics, revenue, profitability ratios, and cost structure, in addition to IT and real estate. Our strong commercial results have made 2024 a record year for our Private Bank, with significant growth in assets under management. The strategic acquisitions of Degroof Petercam have strengthened our market position and enhanced our service offerings. These milestones reflect our capability to adapt and evolve, thereby meeting the sophisticated needs of our clients.
Absolutely, 2024 has been a remarkable year for us. The dedication to transformation and excellence has indeed paid off, and our client-centric approach remains at the heart of everything we do. The significant growth in assets under management and the strategic acquisitions we've made are true testaments to our collective efforts and vision.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Our colleagues have been nothing short of extraordinary. Their exceptional dedication, expertise, and innovation have been pivotal in achieving these milestones. Whether it's executing complex transactions or integrating ESG criteria into our investment strategies, their commitment to excellence is unwavering. The support functions, too, have been crucial, ensuring that our operations run smoothly and efficiently. It's this collective effort that has truly distinguished us in the industry.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
Staying ahead requires a relentless focus on innovation and strategic growth. We plan to continue enhancing our digital capabilities, which will not only improve the client experience but also streamline our
operations. Sustainable finance remains central to our mission, and we'll ensure our investment strategies align with societal needs. Attracting top talent and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation will also be key. By staying attuned to market trends and customer needs, we'll ensure we remain an essential partner for our clients. Moreover, leveraging the powerful international network of the Credit Agricole Group will continue to be a significant differentiating factor for us.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
Navigating challenges has required a robust financial infrastructure, diverse service offerings, and the incredible expertise of our teams. Executing complex transactions demanded meticulous planning and collaboration across all levels of the organisation. The key lesson we've learned is the importance of agility and adaptability. By staying flexible and responsive, we were able to turn challenges into opportunities, strengthening our market position and enhancing our value proposition. Being close to our clients remains a significant advantage and something I focus on every day.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Winning these awards is a tremendous honor. It significantly enhances our brand reputation and market credibility, serving as a testament to our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction. For our colleagues, it's a source of pride and motivation, reinforcing their dedication and hard work. This recognition will attract new clients and top talent, further strengthening our market position and capabilities. Overall, these awards will guide us toward future achievements and set a benchmark for future success.
Christine Ciriani President, Digital Wealth International InvestCloud
Winner
• Onboarding Solution
Please explain why your solution was able to reach this award-winning level?
InvestCloud powers connected solutions and experiences that enable private banks and wealth managers to work smarter, enrich client relationships, and improve financial outcomes. Our Client Lifecycle Management (CLM) solution is designed to significantly improve client onboarding and lifecycle management by combining AI-driven automation, embedded compliance checks, and seamless client engagement helping improve cycle time, operational efficiency and accuracy.
What sets the InvestCloud CLM apart is the easy ‘no code’ configurability of digital forms and workflows to support different client types, processes, local requirements and rules.
Our AI-powered KYC capabilities minimise risks. From the moment a lead enters the pipeline, our system conducts extensive checks across watchlists, databases and news sources – shedding light on compliance and reputational risks early in the process while also providing commercial insights. The same KYC technology dramatically speeds up the ‘source of wealth’ process and the corroboration of information provided by the prospect. ID verification and e-signatures can be integrated in the process.
Our Prospect Portal is another game-changer. It provides a digital, interactive space where prospects can engage with advisors, jointly track tasks and progress, and share relevant documents – all within a secure environment.
Our solution not only streamlines onboarding but also strengthens client relationships from day one. Our goal is to transform CLM from an administrative and compliance burden into an effective sales and engagement process.
What are the key pain points in the industry with respect to the CLM processes?
Private banks face three key challenges in CLM: efficiency, regulatory compliance and client experience.
We obsess about the productivity of RMs and their efficiency in collaborating with their support teams and clients, reducing back-and-forth and duplicate requests. Compliance requirements continue to be rigorous: firms must meet stringent KYC and suitability requirements and mitigate reputational risk.
Clients expect a predictable, personalised and professional experience. Our solution leverages data obtained throughout the client journey to generate more relevant engagement artefacts, including product investments and related documentation.
What are the benefits that your clients achieve with the CLM solution?
Our clients see measurable improvements in efficiency, client conversion, and compliance management. A global private bank reduced onboarding time by a factor of three with a significant reduction in effort. Front-office adoption was over 80% in the first months of roll-out with increased lead generation. Beyond metrics, our solution fosters better collaboration between front-line teams and compliance, reducing rework and minimising client touchpoints. This leads to smoother client experiences, increased client satisfaction, and ultimately, higher retention and share of wallet.
What are the most relevant trends in onboarding and CLM for private banking, and is InvestCloud addressing them?
The industry is moving towards greater flexibility, automation, and AI-driven. ‘No-code tools’ and AI are empowering analysts and business users to design, test, and evolve CLM processes without heavy IT involvement. AI is opening new possibilities in making data capture and validation extremely efficient, equipping RMs with deep client insights and real-time guidance on policies and compliance.
A key industry challenge has been balancing customisation with scalability. Many solutions are either too rigid or overly bespoke. InvestCloud bridges this gap, offering a standard solution that is highly configurable yet sustainable and future-proof.
HEDGE FUNDS │ PRIVATE DEBT │ VENTURE CAPITAL UNCONVENTIONAL THINKING.
YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS
ITERAM Capital Marks 10th Anniversary with Third Consecutive 'Best Alternative Fund Manager' Award
ITERAM Capital recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in the alternative asset management industry, having successfully navigated and adapted to ever-evolving markets. We are deeply grateful to our world-class team, partners, and clients whose trust and collaboration have enabled us to thrive in this competitive space.
As a FINMA-regulated alternative asset manager, ITERAM specialises in alternative fund selection and management, private markets investments, and asset-backed alternative lending. Our team’s expertise, research, and investment acumen are dedicated to building a specialised investment management organisation focused on performance and innovative alternative solutions. We serve as the investment manager for several Luxembourg and Cayman-based funds and provide bespoke alternative investment solutions and research services to professional and institutional clients. Our ability to adapt to market shifts, combined with our deep market insights, has helped us maintain a competitive edge over the years.
Winning this award for the third consecutive year is a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise. We are honored by the judges’ decision to once again name ITERAM 'Best Alternative Fund Manager', recognising our resilience and leadership in alternative investments. This achievement further solidifies our credibility and standing among the industry’s leading players. It is a powerful endorsement of the hard work and commitment that have shaped ITERAM into a highly institutionalised organisation.
In the face of ongoing financial and macroeconomic uncertainties, we recognise the growing importance of accessibility to high-quality, differentiated, and truly uncorrelated alternative strategies. These strategies are critical for navigating the challenges posed by current market conditions. As global markets continue to be
Winner
• Alternative Fund Manager
ITERAM Capital
impacted by volatility, geopolitical tensions, and fluctuating economic conditions, we believe that diversified and uncorrelated strategies will become increasingly essential for portfolio resilience. At ITERAM, we remain focused on delivering innovative solutions that help our clients stay ahead of market trends and achieve long-term success. Looking ahead, we anticipate the hedge fund industry will be shaped by several key trends leading to growing demand for uncorrelated strategies:
• Heightened market volatility – increased market dispersion is creating fertile ground for alpha generation and enhanced risk-adjusted returns.
• Advanced technologies – the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics is uncovering hidden trends and inefficiencies that traditional fundamental analysis may overlook.
• Industry consolidation and competition – the hedge fund space is likely to see increased competition and consolidation, making fund manager selection more critical than ever. While larger asset managers continue to attract capital, we also observe strong flows into smaller managers with niche, specialised strategies.
• Global diversification – as geopolitical risks and macroeconomic conditions fluctuate, hedge funds will increasingly look to Asia, Latin America, and other emerging markets for uncorrelated return opportunities.
At ITERAM, we remain committed to delivering innovative and institutional-grade alternative investment solutions that are tailored to the needs of our clients. As we look to the future, we are excited about the continued evolution of the market and our ability to help clients navigate an increasingly complex landscape.
LeapXpert - Embracing Communications for the New Age of Wealth Management
Michele Torti EVP of Sales, EMEA LeapXpert
Why has your business reached this award-winning level?
•
Risk Management Solution
LeapXpert's success lies in enhancing client engagement while meeting stringent regulatory requirements from bodies like FINMA and the EU. FINMA mandates recording and retention of all communication, including digital platforms like WhatsApp, while prohibiting tools that fail to ensure compliance. Wealth managers must balance regulatory adherence with real-time, personalised client interactions.
As a leading solution in Switzerland and globally, LeapXpert enables wealth managers to use popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp, iMessage, SMS, and Telegram without compromising security or governance. Our platform captures, records, and makes communications accessible for regulatory purposes while maintaining client privacy.
Modern clients demand immediacy, convenience, and personalisation, making traditional methods like email and phone inadequate. LeapXpert bridges this gap with a seamless, compliant communication experience, trusted by major financial institutions. With millions of managed conversations and recognition as a leader in digital communication governance, we help wealth managers deliver exceptional service while mitigating regulatory risks.
How do you intend to remain at the forefront?
Innovation is central to LeapXpert. We integrate with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and our native app, Leap Work. Wealth managers can also engage with clients via WhatsApp on corporate devices. Regardless of their choice, clients can use their preferred channels – WhatsApp, iMessage, SMS, Telegram, Signal, WeChat, or LINE – while ensuring full compliance.
Our advancements include an AI-powered security module and impersonation detection to safeguard interactions. We also launched Maxen, an AI-driven tool providing actionable insights to enhance productivity and client relationships. Additionally,
seamless contact synchronisation across multiple channels streamlines operations for wealth managers.
By anticipating industry needs and continuously evolving, LeapXpert equips wealth managers with the tools to balance personalised service with compliance, ensuring our leadership in the wealth management landscape.
What’s next for the wealth management sector?
The industry is moving toward hyper-personalisation and digital transformation. Clients expect real-time engagement through their preferred channels. Firms that adapt will thrive, while those slow to evolve risk obsolescence.
Regulatory scrutiny will intensify, making secure, compliant interactions essential. Operational efficiency and superior client experiences will become key differentiators. Platforms like LeapXpert will bridge the gap between client convenience and institutional governance. The adoption of data-driven decision-making will further shape the sector, enabling firms to provide tailored, proactive client services.
What does winning this award mean for LeapXpert?
Winning this award validates our mission to redefine wealth management communications. It recognises our team's dedication and innovation while reinforcing our position as an industry leader. This achievement boosts our visibility, strengthens trust with prospective clients, and motivates us to push the boundaries of digital communication further.
For our customers, this accolade reaffirms their confidence in LeapXpert as a trusted partner committed to exceeding modern communication standards. We remain dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower wealth managers to navigate compliance complexities while offering an unparalleled client experience.
Trusted Property Investment, Backed by Expertise.
At LendInvest Capital, we’ve built over 15 years of experience to offer reliable and stable returns for institutional and individual investors. As a leading real estate asset manager and property finance platform, we provide access to opportunities in the UK property market.
Learn more about how we can support your investment journey. Visit www.lendinvest.com/capital
LendInvest Capital and LI Capital are registered trading names of LendInvest Funds Management Limited. LendInvest Funds Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 624223). LendInvest Funds Management Limited is a company registered in England & Wales (Company No. 07667749) and is a wholly owned subsidiary of LendInvest plc. Information is not presented, nor should be taken, as suitable for the general public, nor is it directed to any person in any jurisdiction where the publication or availability of this information is prohibited.
Any and all information about investing is only intended for eligible investors. Investors must meet the investor eligibility criteria, including, for our funds, that they are well informed and, where relevant, have sufficient investment knowledge, experience and financial resources. The LendInvest Secured Credit Fund III is not available to retail clients. Income and capital repayments are not guaranteed. Investors cannot liquidate investments, but the underlying borrowers may repay early, late or not at all. Your capital is at risk. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. The information we provide can help you make your own informed decisions, but it is not investment advice or a personal recommendation. You should ensure you fully understand the risks. You should seek independent financial advice if you are not sure a product or investment is right for you, or you do not fully understand the risks.
The Innovative In-House Solution Award for LendInvest Secured Credit Fund 3
We are delighted to announce that LendInvest’s Secured Credit Fund 3 has been recognised with the 'Innovative In-House Solution' Award at the WealthBriefing Swiss Awards 2025. This award is testament to our commitment to delivering creative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our investors while continually honing our core competencies in property finance.
What Sets LSCF 3 Apart
At LendInvest, we’ve always prided ourselves on being at the forefront of the UK property finance market - using our customercentric approach to build and refine appealing propositions.
Secured Credit Fund 3 exemplifies this approach. We created this fund with a clear purpose: to deliver a specialised, bridgingfocused strategy that offers eligible sophisticated investors protected returns in a range of markets.
Listening to our investors was at the heart of this fund’s development. Many told us they wanted simplicity, transparency, and greater control over their investments. In response, for this fund we moved away from a co-mingled strategy to a dedicated bridging fund that meets these expectations. Built on an evergreen model, the fund offers enhanced liquidity protections and asset-liability matching, mitigating a key historic risk in the asset class whilst also offering a distributing share class for those seeking quarterly income; the target return is an inflation and interest-rate beating net 8–10% per annum.
How Technology and Expertise Drive Success
Innovation backed by robust risk management is at the heart of what we do. While many competitors are now embracing technology, for us it has always been a core driver of what we bring to
• Most Innovative Client Solution Winner
LendInvest Capital
market. Our proprietary tech systems streamline underwriting and origination, allowing us to process thousands of applications monthly, selecting only the highest-quality opportunities for inclusion in the fund. This approach ensures that investors benefit from a granular portfolio, with around 300 holdings at capacity, prioritising long-term stability.
Alongside technology, our team’s expertise is our greatest asset. The fund’s performance reflects the dedication and skill of a team committed to delivering for investors. Our leadership team, including co-founder and CIO Ian Thomas and CEO Rod Lockhart, brings decades of experience,while credit risk specialists and industryrecognised professionals – including members of the APL board and RICS Chartered Surveyors – ensure the highest standards in fund management.
We are particularly proud of Sam Woodward, who played a key role in the fund’s inception and has been honoured with the Rising Star Award. Sam’s journey from product specialist to recognised leader in fund management exemplifies the blend of expertise, development, and commitment that underpins our success.
Looking Ahead
This award reflects both what we’ve achieved and where we’re heading. As we expand our fund offerings – including a specialist development fund (complementing our Bridging fund) and Life Sciences Development fund – we remain committed to combining innovation, client focus, and expertise to meet the evolving needs of investors.
For us, Secured Credit Fund 3 represents more than just a fund; it’s a continuation of our customer centric approach. By listening to investors, anticipating their needs and delivering innovative solutions, we are proud to raise the benchmark in UK property finance investing.
PUBLICATIONS
WealthBriefing is the leading subscription-based business intelligence service for the wealth management community, with the latest news, analysis and in-depth features from around the globe. WealthBriefing subscribers are part of an international community for whom staying abreast of the latest industry developments is a crucial part of their professional practice. Readers find our content on topics such as strategy, M&A, important people moves, investment management and asset allocation to be an essential resource in a fast-moving world.
The Asia-Pacific region’s meteoric rise as a major wealth management market has sparked huge demand for region-specific business information. WealthBriefingAsia was launched in 2009 to satisfy this growing information requirement, and it is the only wealth management news site focusing exclusively on the Asia-Pacific region. Providing indispensable news, features and industry views that are always relevant and concise, WealthBriefingAsia allows subscribers to conserve that most precious of all resources: time.
The North American wealth management market is one of the largest and most diverse in the world, and is markedly different from those in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Multi and single family offices in particular are a well-entrenched,integral part of the private wealth management landscape. Family Wealth Report provides need to know business intelligence in a convenient and easy-to-read format – straight to subscribers’ inboxes every day. Nowhere else will you find such high quality, in-depth and often exclusive content all in one place.
WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRIVATE CLIENT EVENTS AND AWARDS SERIES
A unique thought-leadership platform, WealthBriefing’s events foster intellectual debate on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and are designed to be an optimal use of wealth managers’ precious time and present an excellent networking opportunity.
WealthBriefing has added to its offering for the global private banking and wealth management communities by running thirteen annual awards programmes for the family office, private banking, wealth management and private client communities. The awards programmes are focused around three main category groupings: experts (individuals and teams); products and services for wealth managers and clients, and institutions of all sizes and types
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Celebrating Excellence: Driving Innovation & Leadership in Wealth Management
Sam Woodward Director of Capital Raising LendInvest Capital
Why were you able to reach this award-winning level?
Success stems from an unwavering focus on understanding what investors value most during uncertain times: stability, control, and transparency. The launch of LendInvest Secured Credit Fund III, our specialised bridging fund, reflects this commitment, designed with an evergreen framework offering private-equity-style liquidity, the option of quarterly income, and other innovative mechanisms to maximise the benefits of the asset class for all investors. These features provide investors and advisors with greater flexibility and confidence in managing portfolios. The fund’s approach is intended to minimise risk while delivering consistent returns, addressing the needs of investors navigating socio-economic uncertainty. We have combined our deep market expertise and client-first mindset to create a reliable solution that stands out in the property-backed investment space.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Our team’s expertise and collaboration have been vital to our success. Our leadership actively shapes strategy and risk management, ensuring alignment across functions, while credit risk specialists uphold rigorous underwriting standards. Knowledge-sharing is at the core of our culture; mentoring programmes and professional development ensure junior colleagues grow into key contributors. Recent achievements include one team member becoming a RICS Chartered Surveyor, while another was appointed to an influential industry board, exemplifying our commitment to professional development and reflecting our commitment to cultivating a high-performing team.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We combine advanced technology with extensive experience to deliver consistently with precision and speed. Our data-driven systems streamline underwriting and origination, ensuring only high-quality opportunities are selected for our portfolios. We
will continue refining our technology and adapting to evolving investor priorities, ensuring stability, transparency, and consistent returns remain at the heart of our offering.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around?
This fund is designed to address key challenges and take advantage of market opportunities by focusing on resilience, which, allied to team expertise and knowledge, is a crucial advantage during times of socio-economic uncertainty. The evergreen structure aligns with modern investor preferences for flexibility and control, offering a robust solution that balances defensiveness with performance. A key evolution has been the importance of adapting to investor feedback to ensure their priorities remain central to our strategy.
Whom do you look to for ideas and inspiration?
We draw inspiration from our team’s expertise, our investors, and industry advances. Our investor base includes highnet-worth individuals, family offices and institutions, offering invaluable insights from across the spectrum, helping to shape our strategy and drive innovation. Externally, we monitor trends in property finance and alternative investments to ensure our approach remains relevant, combining proven practices with forward-looking strategies. Our commitment to doing business faceto-face demonstrates our commitment to relationships and valuing feedback.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
While technology will drive innovation in transparency and efficiency, the enduring appeal of asset-backed investments will remain central to wealth management. Real estate, as a tangible and resilient asset class will continue to attract investors seeking stability and reliable returns. Our funds align with these priorities, balancing innovation with defensiveness to deliver strong, predictable results in all markets.
new order.
As geopolitical rivalry intensifies, new economic blocs form.
Convention calls this a time of caution for investors.
Yet competition between great powers is creating a new order, reshaping where investment opportunity is found.
Discover the power of rethinking at LombardOdier.com
Lombard Odier: Honoured To Be Recognised As The Best Private Bank In Switzerland For The Ninth Time
Our sole mission is to protect and grow our client’s wealth. To do this we must understand our clients’ needs, advise them with a bespoke approach, and in the end achieve strong, steady, measurable results for the long term.
We are honoured to have been named the 'Best Overall Domestic Private Bank' in Switzerland for the ninth year. This prestigious recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering innovative, bespoke, and sustainable wealth management solutions to our clients in Switzerland.
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
As an independent, privately owned banking group with 229 years of stability, Lombard Odier operates free from the pressures of external shareholders. This unique position allows us to focus entirely on our clients; their interests are our own.
Guided by our "rethink everything" philosophy, we are dedicated to preserving and growing our clients’ wealth over the long term. Our financial strength underscores this commitment, with a robust 31.7% Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio and an AA-credit rating reaffirmed by Fitch (June 2024), positioning us as one of the best-capitalised banking groups in the industry.
Our clients – entrepreneurs and their families – entrust us with managing every aspect of their wealth. Their ambitions inspire us to innovate continuously. At Lombard Odier, we embrace a family-oriented, multi-generational approach. Through open dialogue, active listening, and thoughtful questioning, we guide families in succession planning, engage the next generation in decision-making, and align investments with their personal values and objectives.
Initiatives like Your Wealth Outlook and our tax-efficient multi-pocket approach seamlessly integrate wealth planning with wealth management, creating a holistic framework that supports our clients’ life goals and aspirations.
Who do we look to, either inside or outside your business, for ideas and inspiration?
Our clients have been our foremost source of inspiration, shaping the foundation of our business. With seven offices across Switzerland, including our recent openings in Zug and Verbier, we take pride in staying close to our clients.
Our long-lasting relationships, often nurtured over generations, represent the trust and connection that define our approach to wealth management. By actively listening to and learning from our clients, we continue to grow, adapt, and rethink the world around us to deliver excellence.
How do you intend to remain at the forefront and continue to set a high standard?
Our long-term success lies in our ability to balance innovation with our core values. Looking ahead, we are committed to delivering sustainable value, preserving wealth across generations, and taking a proactive approach to engaging with the next generation – the drivers of tomorrow.
By working closely with them, we can anticipate future needs and prepare effectively. We want them to feel confident as they assume responsibility for their families’ wealth, and our dedicated next-generation programmes are designed to empower and support them on this journey.
Our Managing Partner, Frédéric Rochat, once said: “A client who introduces us to his children is a symbol of our success.” I can only agree with this.
Serge Fehr
Limited Partner and Head of Swiss Market for Private Clients Lombard Odier
How Our Vision, Teamwork and Innovation Led to Award-Winning Success in Wealth Management
Simi Schaerer Managing Partner Options Group
Wealth Management Executive Search Firm
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
We’ve combined deep industry expertise, personalised service, and cutting-edge technology to build long-term relationships with clients and candidates. Our commitment to operational excellence and a tailored approach to talent acquisition has consistently driven our success.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Our colleagues bring diverse skills that strengthen our results. The key difference is our collaborative culture – everyone goes the extra mile to exceed expectations. From research to client relations, each team member’s dedication contributes to our success.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We invest in our people, technology, and processes. By staying attuned to industry trends and client needs, we can refine our approach. We also prioritise professional development, ensuring our team maintains a competitive edge while delivering exceptional, personalised service.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
We faced market volatility and changing client expectations, but we adapted by staying agile and focused on core values: transparency, integrity, and collaboration. A key lesson has been the importance of proactive communication to stay aligned and make informed decisions.
Whom to look for, either inside or outside your business, for ideas and inspiration?
For inspiration and innovative ideas, it's crucial to look both within and beyond the
organisation. Internally, our senior leadership, including CEO Mike Karp and President David Korn, provide strategic vision and exemplary guidance, while our top performers contribute fresh and innovative approaches that energise our global team. Cross-team collaboration further fosters creativity and introduces diverse perspectives. Externally, insights from industry experts keep us abreast of emerging trends, and dialogue with clients and partners helps us identify shifting demands. By harmonising these internal and external sources of inspiration, we ensure our business remains forward-thinking and competitive.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Receiving this award affirms the effectiveness of our approach and enhances our standing within the industry. It uplifts team morale, honors their dedication, and positions us to attract leading clients and top talent. This achievement also paves the way for broader opportunities to expand our reach and strengthen our capabilities. Our theme for the year, "Running into 2025," aligns perfectly with this acknowledgment, reflecting our core values of hard work and passion while fueling our ongoing commitment to innovation and the advancement of our firm.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
In 2025, the wealth management industry is set for transformative growth driven by key trends, including the integration of services for holistic solutions, scalable personalisation through AI, and a rising focus on sustainable and impact investing aligned with ESG values. The sector is rapidly embracing digital platforms to enhance client experiences and operational efficiency while adapting to evolving regulatory demands for transparency and compliance. Firms that adopt these strategies are positioned to deliver superior client value and achieve sustainable success in a competitive market.
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Piguet Galland: Technological Innovation And Human Values In Wealth Management
Selman
Bicaco Urrutia
Head of Private Banking Piguet Galland
Founded in 1856, Piguet Galland is a Swiss private bank specialising in wealth management. We operate from six offices across Frenchspeaking Switzerland: Geneva, Lausanne, Nyon, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Yverdon-les-Bains, and Neuchâtel. In 2024, we reached CHF 8 billion in AuM, thanks to our clients' trust and our personalised approach.
Our Mission
Simplifying wealth management by aligning our clients' assets with their life goals. Our strategy is anchored across three pillars: portfolio management, financing and wealth advisory services.
Awards in 2024
In 2024, we received several prestigious awards:
• 'Best Swiss Private Bank' for the fourth consecutive year (International Banker).
• 'Equality Award' (CCIG) for our progress and initiatives in diversity and inclusion.
• The only bank among the 'Best Workplaces' in French-speaking Switzerland (Great Place to Work).
These awards highlight our excellence thanks notably to:
• Sustainable innovation: Our ESG solutions and B Corp certification.
• Personalisation: Through the tailored solutions we deploy.
• Technology at the service of our people and clients: New eBanking platform as well as artificial intelligence tools.
Selman Bicaco’s Approach as Director of Private Banking
Under the leadership of Selman Bicaco, we remain agile to face the current transformations in the banking sector who explains:
"We leverage new technologies to enrich client experience while preserving our added value, that is the human connection. This dynamic approach, with the support of external technology partners, enables us to innovate whilst remaining close to our clients."
Vision for the Future
We envision the future of private banking as a synergy between technology and human values. Selman Bicaco adds:
• HNW Team (Swiss Domestic Clients) Winner
"We remain focused on wealth management whilst reinforcing our proximity with our clients. Our ambition is to integrate more sustainable and digital solutions as we continue to support our clients in their life projects."
The accolades of 2024-2025 demonstrate our ability to adapt to changes in the sector yet maintain trusted relationships with our clients. With an agile and human-centric approach, we embody a forward-looking private bank where performance and human values work in harmony.
A Legacy of Trust and Dedication in Wealth Management
Founded in 1958 and based in Lugano, PKB Private Bank SA (PKB) is an independent private banking boutique with offices in Zurich and Geneva. PKB offers wealth solutions to private clients, entrepreneurs, institutional clients and external asset managers. PKB Private Bank, which is part of PKB Group, fully controlled by the Trabaldo Togna shareholding family since 1961, manages CHF 12bn of assets (of which PKB Private Bank CHF ~6.2bn) and employs more than 200 client-oriented specialists located in Switzerland, Italy and Latin America.
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Our values, combined with the strong entrepreneurial culture deeply rooted in the bank's history, are the backbone of our bank. Dedication, professionalism, and a customer-centric approach with a unique human touch are fundamental principles ingrained in the DNA of the Trabaldo Togna family, the bank's founder and sole shareholder. With decades of experience in private banking, PKB is a trusted partner for our clients throughout their lifetime, fostering enduring relationships that create value and make a difference. PKB's ultimate goal is to leverage the expertise and experience to ensure the prosperity of all stakeholders: customers, employees, and partners. The bank's resilience is a testament to both its heritage and future. Guided by our core values of beauty, dedication, rootedness, and independence, we consistently strive for excellence.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
PKB’s dedicated client professionals believe that each client represents a unique, evolving project and dedicate time and resources to develop lasting relationships based on trust. At PKB, every customer has a direct relationship with their Relationship Manager, who is supported by a team of professionals specialising in a wide range of banking, investment and other related products and solutions. PKB's experience also extends beyond national borders: we offer first-class services typical of a large private bank, while maintaining great attention to detail and always seeking new opportunities to be in line with customers' needs.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
We are proud to represent excellence in Lugano, the third largest financial center in Switzerland. These awards are a further recognition of our efforts to develop ourselves while maintaining a strong local presence: being rooted in the territory is indeed one of PKB's core values. Our rootedness is reflected not only in the decision to be headquartered in Lugano, but also in the numerous initiatives that PKB launched to support local business and innovation with the goal to fuel a virtuous circle in the local economy. Moreover, thanks to the holistic-global model, PKB will continue to offer an integrated and innovative approach, responding to the needs of clients in their wealth management journey.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
The world of wealth management continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements, changing client expectations and global economic dynamics. Technological innovations such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation will be increasingly exploited in this area and will enhance the services provided by wealth management firms. Another notable trend, which is prominently emerging, is the change of client expectations, as they will increasingly ask for more transparency, personalised services, and holistic financial planning. Wealth managers will need to adapt their offerings to cater to these evolving needs and provide comprehensive wealth management solutions.
Luca Venturini CEO
Tired
Standardise with Quantios. Your gateway to error-free filing.
A Game-Changing Solution to Streamline Regulatory Compliance
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Quantios is a global provider of SaaS solutions to the wealth, trust, and corporate services (TCSP) industry. We are committed to accelerating technological innovation in the sector and leading digital transformation for our customers. We partner with close to 700 organisations worldwide, delivering comprehensive SaaS solutions that help wealth, trust and corporate services providers streamline their processes, simplify regulatory compliance and facilitate robust corporate governance.
Quantios offers wealth, trust and corporate services providers the most functionally rich, scalable and secure front-to-back-office platform for entity management, client accounting, regulatory compliance, digital end-client engagement and practice management. Our technology ensures seamless global compliance and streamlined administration, empowering our customers to focus on expanding their operations without the complexities typically involved, allowing them to realise the full benefits to margins, profitability and enterprise value that digitalisation and automation bring.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
Innovation has always been at the heart of Quantios. An example of this is our latest SaaS-based RegTech solution, eFileConnect, which offers wealth, trust and corporate services providers a game-changing solution to streamline regulatory filing, ensure compliance, and simplify the multi-jurisdictional regulatory challenges facing firms.
eFileConnect is a centralised SaaS compliance hub and global filing platform which provides seamless regulatory filings (AEOI, DAC6, etc.), statutory form production, KYC screening and regulatory management globally. For ease of filing, eFileConnect can automatically file directly to the customer’s regulator. With automated connectivity to our other Quantios back-office solutions through
Mark Rallings
Business Development Director Quantios
Winner
• Most Innovative Client Solution
modern API-first design, alongside traditional upload options from other applications (Excel, CSV, etc.), eFileConnect is designed to help firms meet the ever-rising tide of global compliance obligations.
We believe this is a game-changer for the sector via a RegTech solution which simplifies the regulatory process, saves time and effort for providers, reduces the risk of regulatory breaches, fines and reputational damage, and ensures adherence to new regulations.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
The sector is at a pivotal moment, facing unprecedented challenges as it struggles to keep pace with evolving regulatory requirements, changing client expectations and the relentless pressure to maintain margins.
The increasing complexity of managing vast amounts of data, maintaining client satisfaction, and ensuring regulatory compliance, among other challenges, is stretching many businesses thin. Our latest Future Focus Report survey reveals a growing divide between firms that have begun their digital transformation journey and those still hindered by legacy systems and manual processes – often not by choice. The gap is widening, and the consequences of lagging behind are becoming more severe.
Our survey found that 71% of firms aspire to build a scalable business to support growth while controlling costs. Yet, the slow adoption of digital solutions and mounting regulatory and market pressures facing firms may cause those costs to spiral out of control. For those firms that fail to adapt, there is the risk of diminished profitability, regulatory fines, data breaches and missed opportunities for growth.
By working together, we believe the wealth, trust and corporate services sector will be able to move beyond the current issues and challenges that are holding back growth, and be able to realise the full benefits to margins, profitability, enterprise value and client service that digitalisation and automation bring.
WINNER: Lombard Odier
WINNER: Sam Woodward - LendInvest Capital
WINNER: Lombard Odier
WINNER: Lombard Odier
WINNER: Piguet Galland
WINNER: Options Group
WINNER: PKB Private Bank SA
Switzerland’s financial centres, Zurich and Geneva, are at the heart of the global financial services industry. Our clients benefit from our Zurich and Geneva offices, as well as from the worldwide infrastructure of Rawlinson & Hunter’s international network.
Trust Services Our legal and accounting expertise allows us to offer all of our services in an in-house, partner-led, bespoke and personal manner. We have extensive experience in advising on the establishment and administration of trusts, private trust companies and foundations, and provide flexibility on the choice of the governing law for our trusts. We provide a full range of fiduciary services at trust level and at the level of their underlying entities.
Accounting Services for both trusts and corporate entities are offered and undertaken exclusively in Switzerland. These include traditional bookkeeping services and more specialised accounting for trusts (including specific UK tax pool computations) and special purpose vehicles. In addition to the accounting for our client’s structures in-house, we also provide accounting services to other trustees in Switzerland and abroad.
Partners : Andrew McCallum, William Houseley, Leon Keen www.rawlinson-hunter.ch/switzerland
Zurich: Bellevueplatz 5, CH 8001 Zurich
Tel : +41 44 227 6700
Geneva: Rue du Mont-Blanc 4, CH 1201 Geneva
Tel : +41 22 901 0012
Excellence in Wealth Management: How Rawlinson & Hunter Switzerland Stays Ahead in a Competitive Industry
Please explain why you /your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
We believe that the international structure of Rawlinson & Hunter is unique, not just in the way that it operates but also because of the extensive scope of services provided and the access to experienced trusted advisers across the grouping.
Whilst our clients and their advisors tell us that we are one of the few trust and corporate service providers worldwide that can effectively and efficiently manage trust structures of significant value and complexity, we pride ourselves on offering a personalised service to each and every client, regardless of size.
Trusteeship, corporate services, and accounting services are amongst R&H Switzerland’s core strengths. Regarding our accounting practice, in addition to completing in-house all of the accounting for trusts under our trusteeship, we also provide accounting services to other trustees who do not possess this capability in-house, which distinguishes us from our peers.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
Firstly, we shall remain independent, with no private equity or external shareholders. We feel this independence prevents conflicts of interest which is essential when acting in a fiduciary capacity. It allows us to operate on a completely open architecture basis, and in consequence we do not promote the use of any specific jurisdiction, structure, banking or legal services relationship over any other. This, in turn, allows us to provide tailored long term solutions to each family that best fit their specific needs and objectives. In addition, each mandate is directly led by one of the Partners as we wish to ensure a consistently high level of service as well as continuity in our client relationships.
Winner
• Tax/Accountancy Team
Rawlinson & Hunter Switzerland
Secondly, we endeavour to be thought leaders to help shape the industry in Switzerland, by sitting on various industry leading boards, participating in government consultations and providing various training courses. To achieve this, we keep ourselves abreast of latest developments in the wider industry and also rely on the well-established expertise of the international R&H network.
Whom to look for, either inside or outside of your business, for ideas and inspiration?
We are thankful to be able rely on the expertise, experience and particular skill set of each of our international R&H offices. This enables us to service our clients to the highest standard and to approach singular and complex issues with innovative and creative solutions. We endeavour to adopt a unified approach to meet our clients’ needs by leveraging cross-functional expertise within our internal departments. Staff collaboration is the key to our success as we believe that each member contributes their unique skills and perspective enabling us to service our clients effectively.
Where so you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
We expect the Swiss wealth management sector to remain competitive and to continue evolving in response to shifting clients’ needs which will likely require complex planning and international solutions. Regulatory developments will largely dictate the landscape and service providers will need to adapt to ensure compliance with international standards. In order to stay competitive, they will also need to consider embracing new secure technology and digital tools to streamline day to day administration. We believe that the demand for trustees in Switzerland will continue to strengthen, particularly for UHNW international clients requiring succession planning solutions.
Approach life’s adventures with peace of mind
Keep your pension on track as you transition to new life chapters. Whether you are between jobs, going on a sabbatical or becoming self-employed, our wealth expertise is here to guide you.
Our vested benefits solutions protect you against coverage gaps and let you choose your investment strategy.
Let’s talk about your pension
It’s All About A Long Term Perspective
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Gabriel Gascon: As a family-owned business in its seventh generation, we strongly believe in a long-term perspective in everything we do. This award recognises our focused strategy, flexible and tailored offerings, and service-oriented culture, especially for international clients with complex wealth situations. A particular strength of Rothschild & Co is our global network of experts in the wealth management area and advising companies and entrepreneurs in corporate finance matters within our Global Advisory business. Our client advisers do on average look after only 30 clients, giving them time to be very close to their clients.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Andreas Feller: It's the Rothschild & Co DNA focusing on objectively advising our clients and striving for the best possible solution. Our service is always a team effort, and we are very proud of the excellent work of our colleagues and the investment performance we have achieved for our clients. We always have a long-term perspective to preserve and grow our clients’ assets over market cycles.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
Andreas Feller: The award is not the result of a one-time effort. We have a clear vision of how to advise our clients to be their partner over a long period. It is all about trust. We also reflect on our offering and our service on an ongoing basis to continuously improve and adapt to new client needs.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
Gabriel Gascon: Open communication with clients is crucial,
Gabriel Gascon - Head of Private Banking, Geneva
Andreas Feller - Head of Private Banking, Zurich
Rothschild & Co Wealth Management
• HNW Team (International Clients)
especially in volatile and uncertain markets. Clients highly appreciate transparency and proactivity. We focus on long-term esults and remain calm during short-term issues.
Whom to look for, either inside or outside your business, for ideas and inspiration?
Andreas Feller: Everyone has their own inspirational sources and contacts. We at Rothschild & Co try to learn from each other – within the teams and the bank, but also globally from our colleagues abroad every day. We share ideas and knowledge and reflect a lot on our performance. A positive, error-accepting culture allows us to do so openly and constructively.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Gabriel Gascon: Above all, we are proud and feel rewarded for a great team effort. It is a huge motivation for all of us. It will help in our marketing efforts and add credibility to our positioning. Our aim is to consistently offer the best service for our clients’ needs over time, and winning these awards encourages us to work even harder to do so.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
Andreas Feller: We will all have to cope with a challenging economic and political environment, making trust in your adviser and a strong personal relationship more important. While some banking services are automated or digitally available, many clients need someone to help navigate this challenging environment and offer long-term solutions for wealth preservation and growth. Early pension planning is also becoming more important for clients. With many clients having international backgrounds and wealth situations, access to know-how in various markets and jurisdictions is key. A global network to rely on will be crucial.
We think great ideas are a great idea
Ideas like offering Swiss bank solidity and boutique agility. Or inviting you to invest alongside us, the Syz family. Or making bank ads that don’t look like bank ads.
Syz Group: Elevating Wealth Management with Innovation, Expertise and a Personal Touch
FEtienne Billaud Head of External Asset Managers Syz Group
Winner
• Research Support for External Asset Managers
• Digital Assets Solution
ounded in 1996, Syz Group is a family-owned and run Swiss banking group. Syz brings together Swiss banking stability, boutique agility, and pioneering investments to empower clients' wealth.
With a focus on wealth and asset management, the Group offers personalised services and investment opportunities through three entities: Syz Bank, Syz Capital and Syz Asset Management.
Please explain why you/your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
The External Asset Managers (EAM) team at Syz Bank sits within the private bank, allowing us to open up our investment platform to EAMs in the same way that we do for our private clients that come directly to the bank.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
The involvement of our CIO – Charles-Henry Monchau – and his team of over 35 investment specialists really made the difference. The quality of their research and insights as well as their accessibility to connect with our clients adds tremendous value to our offering. In addition, we have a dedicated Investment Specialist within the EAM Team offering timely and proactive support to our clients. All these resources working hand in hand with the EAM relationship managers.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
We hope that this award will continue to reinforce the added value that we can offer our EAM clients through our extensive investment research capabilities and thought leadership, as well as generate interest for the differentiated services that we can offer. For example, we recently launched ‘Syz as a Service’ an “à la carte” service that draws on our investment and wealth management expertise, as well as our operational capabilities. Through an Outsourced Chief Investment Office solution, we partner with EAMs as an extension of their organisation, enabling them to leverage our skills and be supported by a team of professionals.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
I strongly believe that EAM business will continue to play a strategic role in the wealth management industry and continue to grow over the next 5 years. Where some banks have institutionalised this business, we are proud to offer a more personal and dedicated private banking approach for our EAM clients. Remaining attuned to the growing requirements of External Asset Managers will continue to be of utmost importance in order to continue adapting our service and offering. For example, we now uniquely offer digital currency trading and custody for customers wishing to secure their digital assets in a Swiss private bank rather than on an exchange.
Leading the Charge: TrustConsult’s Empowering Women Drive
Excellence in Wealth Management
Why TrustConsult reached this award-winning level?
TrustConsult (Suisse) S.A. reached this award-winning level due to its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional, client-focused services. With a focus on high-net-worth individuals, families, and entrepreneurs, the firm offers tailored solutions that meet complex wealth and estate planning needs. Its success stems from maintaining the highest standards in regulatory compliance and expertise, while embracing innovation and strategic growth. The firm’s dedication to empowering its team and clients alike has earned it prestigious awards, including the 'Management Consultancy' award, the 'Women in Wealth Management (Company)' award and the 'Wealth Management Rising Star Under 40' award for Director Kateryna Viy. By fostering an inclusive work culture and driving excellence in every aspect of the business, TrustConsult has built a reputation as a trusted leader in the wealth management space.
How does TrustConsult intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
To maintain its competitive edge, TrustConsult stays ahead of industry trends and embraces innovation. The firm invests in cutting-edge technology to enhance client service, optimise internal processes, and improve efficiency. By integrating advanced tools, TrustConsult ensures seamless, secure services that adapt to evolving market demands. Regulatory compliance remains a cornerstone of the firm’s strategy. TrustConsult actively invests in professional development and mentorship programs, cultivating the next generation of industry leaders. Through continuous education, team members gain the expertise necessary to provide exceptional service. The firm’s signature “one client, one relationship” model ensures a personalised, client-centric approach. This strategy fosters long-term relationships built on trust and excellence. Additionally, by maintaining a strong industry presence and engaging with clients and stakeholders, TrustConsult reinforces its position as a forward-thinking and trusted partner.
Cécile Civiale Vuillier - Partner
Kateryna VIY - Client Director TrustConsult (Suisse) SA
Winner
• Management Consultancy
• Women in Wealth Management (Company)
• Wealth Management Rising Star Under 40
Whom should TrustConsult look to, inside or outside the business, for ideas and inspiration?
Internally, TrustConsult draws inspiration from its diverse and talented team players, including its senior leadership and skilled employees. These individuals contribute a wide range of perspectives that foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. The leadership team, in particular, sets the example in terms of thought leadership, guiding the organisation with clear vision and direction. Externally, TrustConsult looks to industry peers and thought leaders from organisations like STEP and XLNC, where it can gain valuable insights into emerging trends, regulatory changes, and industry best practices. These external resources, along with TrustConsult’s involvement in global wealth management conferences, help the firm stay agile and responsive to market shifts, ensuring the business remains on the cutting edge.
What will winning these awards do for TrustConsult and its colleagues?
Winning these prestigious awards for four consecutive years has a significant impact on TrustConsult (Suisse) S.A. and its colleagues. It reinforces the firm’s reputation within the estate and succession planning industry, solidifying its position as a leader in bespoke wealth and estate planning solutions. This continued recognition validates TrustConsult’s unwavering commitment to client-first service and the promotion of diversity and inclusion, particularly through its strong focus on female leadership. These achievements not only open doors to new business opportunities but also enhance market visibility, strengthening the firm’s ability to attract top talent. For employees, winning for four consecutive years serves as a powerful motivator, inspiring them to push the boundaries of excellence and contribute to the firm's ongoing success. It boosts morale and fosters a deep sense of pride and accomplishment in being part of a high-performing, award-winning team.
WeareUMA
A service provider grounded in knowledge and expertise.
WEALTH
MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
At UMA Wealth, we deliver bespoke wealth management solutions tailored to the unique needs of individuals, families, and companies. As a private client and family wealth consultancy and licensed Trustee group, we specialize in preserving, growing, and transferring wealth with precision and care.
www.umawealth.com
Transforming Your Vision is Our Strategic Mission
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
UMA Wealth is a boutique firm consciously and by design. Hence, we strive every day to tailor our policies and craft our business goals to deliver quality and personalised service to our clients, as only we believe a boutique firm can.
Our personalised solutions are Unique We offer targeted services and support based on deep industry knowledge. Our professionals, each with diverse cultural backgrounds, varied professional expertise, and vast work experiences, share one common goal: to provide bespoke services to our clients. We firmly believe this unity is essential for us to execute the tasks that our clients have entrusted to us and to support them in reaching their goals as a family and as business owners.
We are Mindful of what is essential to our clients, the persons who support and help them to reach the objectives for which they have requested our support and advice. At the core of our approach lies a commitment to the belief that families and UHNWIs seek not only to be heard and understood but wish to be serviced in a way that meets their unique financial and personal objectives within the legal and compliant parameters and environment of the constant global changing regulations.
We are confident and Assured due to our personalised, client-focused approach and unwavering commitment to quality. We provide continuity through the loyalty of our team and by fostering trust and longterm relationships. Our independence from corporate agendas ensures objective consultancy support services free of conflicts of interest, aligning solely with our client´s outcomes.
Additionally, our specialised expertise, agility in decision-making, and tailored services instil confidence, offering our clients a sense of exclusivity and reliability.
This combination of trust, transparency, and bespoke solutions makes UMA Wealth
Group a dependable choice for fiduciary, trustee services, and wealth consultancy support.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
At UMA Wealth, we work collaboratively across offices on shared clients and projects. Due to the customised nature of our work, we rely on a team approach. Our reporting lines are flat, and we engage with our clients closely.
Our colleagues have shown themselves to be flexible and adaptable, stepping in and stepping up as needed. Additionally, they invest in their personal and professional development, which helps us continuously to improve our services.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We invest in a skilled team with the right attitude, vision, and appetite. Supporting them with education, training, and top industry tools ensures efficient, accurate client service.
We prioritise understanding client needs while complying with regulations. To enhance efficiency, we continue investing in advanced CRM systems.
Whom to look for, inside or outside your business for ideas and inspiration?
Our clients are our primary source of inspiration. Each family and entrepreneur has a unique success story, with challenges, aspirations, and concerns. We also find inspiration in the other professionals we work with.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
Receiving this award is a testament to the passion, hard work, and dedication of our team and partners. It reinforces our vision and validates our innovative approach and industry expertise.
We want to extend our warmest thanks to all our clients for their trust and support, which has enabled us to win the WealthBriefing Swiss Awards 2025 for “Structured Product Provider”.
Driving Innovation and Excellence: How Our Global Team Sets the Standard in Structured Products
Jeremy Bellaïche Global Head of Structured Products Union Bancaire Privée
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Winner
• Structured Product Provider
Our team of 11 highly qualified experts, strategically located across Geneva, Zurich, Singapore, and Hong Kong, have been instrumental in our success. Their diverse backgrounds and multilingual capabilities allow us to communicate effectively with clients worldwide. Each team member brings over ten years of experience in structured products, ensuring we deliver top-notch solutions. Their commitment to continuous learning and innovation has been key in maintaining our position as leaders in structured product innovation. By fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing, our colleagues consistently contribute fresh ideas and perspectives that drive our success, always considering the next steps and ways to disrupt offerings.
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
To stay ahead, we focus on service, innovation, customisation, and digital solutions – drawing expertise from our diverse investment teams, whether in research or portfolio management. It’s a team effort and a constant endeavour.
Our groundbreaking actively managed solutions, like the UBP Structured Products Selection Certificate, exemplify our commitment to providing unique investment opportunities. We continuously monitor market trends and client needs to refine our offerings. By leveraging our global network and in-house expertise, we ensure best execution and competitive pricing, maintaining our high standards. We also invest in technology and training to enhance our capabilities, ensuring that we remain agile and responsive to market changes.
In what ways were you able to deal with challenges and problems this time around? What lessons have you learned?
We tackled challenges by emphasising risk management and diversification across payoffs and asset classes with a goal-based approach, always customising solutions to meet clients' needs and aligning offerings with the bank's fundamental views on financial markets.
For instance, our UBP Structured Products Selection Certificate solution includes products designed with a defensive approach, ensuring a downside buffer and low volatility. This strategy proved effective during market fluctuations, allowing us to deliver consistent returns. The lesson learned is the importance of adaptability and maintaining a robust, transparent investment process to manage risks effectively. We also learned the value of client communication, keeping them informed and reassured during uncertain times, which strengthened our relationships and trust.
What will winning this award do for your business and colleagues?
It recognises the hard work and dedication of our team, boosting morale and motivation. Winning this award will enhance our reputation and credibility in the wealth management sector and towards our external partners. For our clients, it reaffirms their trust in our ability to deliver exceptional investment solutions. This accolade will also attract new clients and partnerships, expanding our reach and influence in the industry. Additionally, it positions us as thought leaders, opening opportunities for collaboration and innovation with other industry pioneers.
WINNER IN THE INSURANCE OFFERING CATEGORY
We understand the importance of having specialised knowledge in the market. Our talented in-house team is adept at navigating the ever-changing market dynamics. By partnering with banks, asset managers and advisory firms we provide insurance-based solutions to create and enhance client wealth structures. Our strong financial foundation, expert support and diverse proposition are highly regarded. This enables us to maintain strong momentum and achieve operational excellence in our specialised sector.
ABOUT UTMOST WEALTH SOLUTIONS
Utmost Wealth Solutions is a leading provider of insurance-based wealth solutions, operating across the UK, Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. Our products, primarily based on unitlinked insurance policies, cater to the needs of high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth (UHNW) individuals. Following the acquisition of Lombard International Assurance Holdings Sarl and on a pro-forma basis, Utmost Wealth Solutions managed c. £103 bn of assets under administration on behalf of approximately 210,000 policyholders as at 30 June 2024.
To find out more about Utmost Wealth Solutions, visit our website: www.utmostinternational.com
Utmost Wealth Solutions Achieves Award-Winning Success with ClientCentric Approach and Strategic Growth
Please explain why your business was able to reach this award-winning level?
Utmost Wealth Solutions is a global leading provider of insurance-based wealth solutions. Our solutions are largely based on unit-linked insurance policies.
Our award-winning level builds on our commitment to building an enduring business that supports present and future generations, ensuring that our mission to make a positive difference is central to everything that we do.
This dedication is further supported by sound financial foundations, which enable us to run the business with stability and resilience. We understand that excellent customer service requires constant investment and improvement, and we embrace this challenge through both the ability and the commitment to invest in our people, processes and infrastructure.
Over the past 12 years, Utmost has completed 15 acquisitions and grown our assets under administration to over £100bn. We have relationships with 750 global advisers and partners, working together to support our mutual clients. Our A+ Insurer Financial Strength rating from Fitch Ratings further demonstrates our commitment to excellence and financial stability.
What was the way your colleagues made a difference?
Our colleagues have made a difference by demonstrating an unwavering focus on the needs of our clients and partners, ensuring their interests are prioritised even amidst challenging circumstances. Our multidisciplinary team of experts – spanning client servicing, relationship managers, lawyers, tax and estate experts, actuaries, and insurance and investment professionals – is a unique and critical component in enabling our business to structure several billion euros of client wealth year-on-year.
Stephen Atkinson Head of Global Sales, Utmost Wealth Solutions Utmost Wealth Solutions
How do you intend to remain on the front foot and continue to set a high standard?
We are committed to a strategy of constant improvement and investment. Central to our approach is actively listening to all our stakeholders – clients, partners, other advisors, and, of course, our people. This open and collaborative dialogue enables us to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and partners.
At the same time, we maintain a rigorous approach to building and sustaining a strong, resilient business, ensuring that our organisation is not only prepared to withstand potential future shocks but also positioned to thrive in the face of uncertainty.
Where do you see the wider wealth management sector going in the next five years?
The ongoing development and application of artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly influence the industry, particularly in areas such as structuring, planning, and investment strategies. This evolution will likely put pressure on margins, requiring firms to become more efficient and adept at integrating technology into their service models.
However, the complexity of managing wealth will also increase. These challenges cannot be fully addressed by AI alone and will continue to require personalised, face-to-face planning and deep expertise from advisors.
To thrive in this changing landscape, wealth management firms must strike a balance between leveraging technology for efficiency and maintaining a human-centric approach for complex, high-value planning. We are confident in our ability to navigate these changes and continue setting the standard in wealth management.
Leading the Way in Cross-Border Tax, Estate and Succession Planning for Global Families
What sets your practice apart from others in the market?
Our expertise in cross-border tax, estate, and succession planning sets us apart. Unlike firms focused on a single jurisdiction, we take a neutral, unbiased approach, ensuring seamless client planning.
From our Geneva office, we provide international advice across multiple jurisdictions, integrating insights from different countries. We are recognised leaders in assisting clients with UK and US connections. While we do not offer Swiss legal advice, we collaborate with top-tier experts to ensure the best possible support. Our strong global network enables us to deliver comprehensive, cohesive solutions.
A key differentiator is our fiduciary support, leveraging deep trust law expertise from our common law background. This allows us to provide valuable insights within a civil law framework, offering clients a unique advantage in managing their wealth across different legal systems.
Where do you see the potential for growth in your practice?
We anticipate significant growth across key areas. In an era of political and economic instability, clients increasingly seek our guidance. Global changes present major opportunities, and our international network positions us to support clients’ growing mobility and investments. The steady influx of clients through our Swiss office and seamless coordination across locations highlight our expertise in global mobility.
Generational wealth transfer further drives expansion. Our deep understanding of clients’ affairs enables us to advise successive generations, broadening our client base.
We also see strong potential in fiduciary support, offering non-legal administrative assistance to clients and family offices. Our unique blend of legal and governance expertise in fiduciary
Justine Markovitz - Chairperson
Berry Bloomberg - Partner
Winner
• Estate Planning Advice
structures allows us to navigate family wealth management with exceptional skill and flexibility.
What are the biggest issues your clients are currently coming to you with?
Our clients are grappling with challenges on a number of different fronts. Of particular note are the forthcoming changes to the UK's taxation of non-domiciled individuals, which is requiring a significant amount of advice and planning. There is also a growing influx of enquiries related to the US, particularly from clients investing in the US, with children in the US, and those seeking to relocate to the US. Relocation is another common and related theme, driven by fiscal and other changes in the UK and other jurisdictions.
Compliance remains a major issue for our clients, who frequently look to us for support in satisfying requests from banks and other financial institutions. Our ability to explain the rationale behind structures and arrangements and to confirm their legality and legitimacy means that we are well placed to help with this.
What are the keys to success in working with HNW clients?
Success with high-net-worth (HNW) clients starts with technical expertise – deep knowledge of legal issues and knowing whom to consult when needed. Equally vital are availability, responsiveness, and proactive problem-solving.
HNW clients expect high-quality, flexible services tailored to their unique needs. A creative, "outside-the-box" approach is often necessary for complex challenges. Strong relationships are key – understanding clients, their families, and close advisors like trustees and family offices ensures a holistic, personalised approach to wealth management.
A New Entrant In The Core Banking System Market For Private Banks In Switzerland
What sets you apart from your peers this year and why?
WIZE by TeamWork, the all-in-one Wealth & Asset Management solution, is one of the fastest growing WealthTech companies in Switzerland historically dedicated to External Asset Managers (EAM), Family Offices (FO), Fund managers and Pension funds.
Since 2025, WIZE also exists in a full Front to Back Core Banking System version for Private Banks and Securities Firms.
This is a major move for WIZE in the Swiss Private Banking industry since, to our knowledge, the last time a new Core Banking package arrived on this market was Avaloq, 25 years ago…
We are therefore extremely excited to bring Private Banks a major innovation: the capability to manage private clients non-deposited portfolios in addition to the classical management of deposited assets.
WIZE is indeed the first ever Core Banking System that will natively allow Private Banks to optimize their cost/income ratio by enabling classical costs savings thanks to a higher automation level but more importantly creating opportunities of new sources of revenue by offering Wealth Management mandates to non-deposited private clients.
This new operational capability in the Private Client market will be a key element to reduce risks and higher revenue of Private Banks when new Relationship Managers will be hired since statistics show that, on average, they only succeed to transfer 30 to 50% of their clients assets in the new custodian bank. With WIZE, they will be able to offer Wealth Management mandates to all their clients while only a part will transfer their assets.
Does it mean a revolution for WIZE by TeamWork with a full focus on this new market?
No, absolutely not, this is simply a natural evolution!
Our historical core market is to offer a wealth & asset management platform to External Asset Managers who need to be connected to multiple custody banks. This will not change for us as, with connectivity to 250+ booking centres of custodian banks and 30+ trading rooms of brokers or banks in Straight Through Processing, we benefit from a large scope of functionalities to serve these clients and we continuously invest in the development of new functionalities to enforce our competitive advantage.
At WIZE by TeamWork, we simply carefully listen to our clients and analyse their change requests in our weekly product committee. We already have Private Bank clients for more than 10 years using WIZE as a Front Office system connected to their Core Banking System. They knew our custodian Securities Firms clients had the possibility to manage deposited and non-deposited assets for already more than 10 years and this capability is a very appealing source of revenue for Private Banks too. We therefore accepted this challenge and planned the development of these new functionalities over multiple years with our first Private Bank client successfully migrated on the WIZE full Core Banking System this 1st January 2025 in Zurich.
This great achievement from our teams offers new opportunities for WIZE by TeamWork but we will continue to be very active on our historical External Asset Managers core market as its growth in Switzerland, UK, Singapore, Luxembourg and Middle East is very impressive.
Pierre Dupont Managing Partner
WIZE By TeamWork
WINNER: Prometeia
WINNER: REYL Overseas
WINNER: SS&C Technologies
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The Twelfth Annual WealthBriefing Swiss Awards Winners 2025
WINNER: Syz Bank
WINNER: Rothschild & Co Wealth Management
WINNER: Syz Bank
PRIVATE BANKING CATEGORIES
Team (International Clients)
(Swiss Domestic Clients)
Team (Swiss Domestic Clients)
Team (International Clients)
WINNER: UMA Wealth (Switzerland) AG
WINNER: Union Bancaire Privée, UBP SA
WINNER: Kateryna Viy - TrustConsult (Suisse) SA
WINNER: TrustConsult (Suisse) SA
LEADERSHIP CATEGORIES
Wealth Management Rising Star Under 30
Wealth Management Rising Star Under 40
Women in Wealth Management (Company Contribution)
Women in Wealth Management (Individual)
SAM WOODWARD KATERINA VIY
MARYANN UMOREN SELFE
WINNER: Dr. Chris Künzle - ZHAW School of Management and Law