Money is moving fast from European private banks to family offices and the private investment arms which handle their asset allocation, as wealthy families become disappointed by the poor returns of major providers. Will this be a long-standing wealth management trend or just a temporary blip? Yuri Bender talks to Adam Wethered, founder of private investment office Lord North Street.

Switzerland has been under sustained attack from the US authorities, with the aim of shutting down any banks helping US citizens to avoid taxes. As a result of international pressures, the banks have been changing their business to highlight portfolio management and asset allocation, rather than earning money from luring clients into secret, tax-friendly structures. 

Increasing levels of regulation, especially from the US, are forcing the Swiss to make significant adjustments to preserve their status as a leading financial centre

Banks active in Asia are rethinking client offerings, to adjust to the changing mentality of the region’s increasingly currency conscious wealthy investors

The scandal surrounding the Hildebrands may mark a watershed in the relationship between Swiss bankers and politicians

As PWM celebrates its tenth anniversary, we would like to ask: what should the private bank of the future look like? The answer to this both simple and complex question is “not like one of the past”, according to speakers at our recent private banking summit and awards ceremony, held in Geneva.

True leaders need to stick around and see their plans to completion, rather than move on to the next challenge

Boutique wealth managers are springing up across Asia, but competition from both global and regional players is fierce