Nicolas Faller

Nicolas Faller, Co-CEO of UBP Asset Management, which oversees EUR 34 billion in AUM, expresses confidence in a swift resolution to the conflict with Iran.

What does the future hold for Swiss asset management? Nicolas Faller, UBP's Co-CEO Asset Management, highlights the importance of specialisation, strategic acquisitions, and embracing AI to stay ahead in a competitive market.

Nicolas Faller spoke to Finanz und Wirtschaft about the recent shifts in the investment landscape – in particular in private markets – and how this, along with Switzerland’s unique economic situation, is affecting investment flows.

Many baby boomers have entered the decumulation phase of their financial lives and for them, the priority has shifted from capital appreciation to income stability. Accordingly, diversification and carry (income from coupons) are paramount. Investors value the stable yields bonds provide, especially when they come with managed volatility, and emerging-market debt (EMD) is an excellent source of diversification.

In 2022, a survey by BNP Paribas AM and Coalition Greenwich showed that 88% of wholesale investors and 36% of institutional investors were keen on thematic strategies. 

Hedge funds are seeing positive inflows this year, says UBP’s Nicolas Faller, who also talked to us about his preferences in terms of bond and equity investments.

The Swiss private bank is looking to expand its Middle East business by targeting new markets in the region.

On 11 & 12 May, our Asset Management division held its third Investment Insight Summit in Zurich. More than 100 clients and staff from across Switzerland and Europe attended the event, which finally gave them the opportunity to meet in person again.

At the end of June 2019, UBP's assets under management had almost risen back to the level they reached in 2007, before the financial crisis caused them to fall to CHF 65 billion by the end of 2010. Since then, UBP has doubled in size and laid the foundations for further growth.