The Business Times
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THE BROAD VIEW

Asia’s wealthy turn to Switzerland to park assets

Swiss private banks report rising demand from Asian family offices and rich individuals to book assets in Europe

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    • Switzerland has held its ground as the world’s pre-eminent haven despite years of predictions that the erosion of bank secrecy and international pressure on offshore finance would diminish its status.
    • Switzerland has held its ground as the world’s pre-eminent haven despite years of predictions that the erosion of bank secrecy and international pressure on offshore finance would diminish its status. PHOTO: REUTERS

    Mercedes Ruehl

    Published Fri, Jan 2, 2026 · 03:00 PM

    [ZURICH] Swiss private banks are expanding their Asia-focused teams onshore in Switzerland, after a sharp rise in referrals and inquiries from the region in the past two years.

    Bankers said Asian family offices and ultra-wealthy individuals were increasingly shifting their money to Switzerland, seeking direct relationships and a haven for assets, including physical gold in vaults.

    These clients wanted their investments to be legally booked and held in Switzerland, even if they live and work elsewhere, the bankers said.

    SwitzerlandFinancial centresSingaporeHong Kong

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