14 Best Private Banks In The World

The best private banks in the world are profiled in this article’s detail section. The list in the next section includes the most well-known private bankers.

HNWIs typically have more complex financial needs than the majority of retail customers. These are people whose possessions are simple to liquidate.

Although there is no agreement on the amount needed to fall into this category, it is safe to assume that you would need at least $1 million. However, according to Charles Schwab, you must have at least $2.3 million to qualify as wealthy.

HNWIs frequently turn to private banks to meet their financial needs, regardless of how much money they have on hand.

These financial institutions provide a variety of services under one roof, including trust and estate planning and investment management.

Rich clients typically have a dedicated private banker or relationship manager assigned to them. Their sole point of contact for all of their financial concerns is this expert.

Since they provide general public banking services, the majority of these names might sound familiar. Although each institution’s assets under management (AUM) are updated as of the end of 2022, the banks are ranked according to the list’s ranking.

If you are looking to invest as an expat or high-net-worth individual, which is what I specialize in, you can email me (advice@adamfayed.com) or use WhatsApp (+44-7393-450-837).

We recommend that most wealthy locals and expats invest offshore despite this list, and we can help with that.

Innovations in Wealth Management and Digital Banking

In 2023, the wealth management and digital banking sectors are witnessing significant transformations. The best private banks are not only adapting to these changes but are also at the forefront of driving innovation.

This part of the blog will delve into the key trends shaping the future of wealth management and digital banking.

The Rise of Digital and Mobile-First Strategies

One of the most prominent trends in digital banking is the shift towards mobile-first strategies. As consumers increasingly use smartphones for financial activities, the best private banks are focusing on mobile-optimized services.

This includes capabilities like mobile payments and mobile check deposits, enhancing the customer experience for managing finances on the go.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

The use of AI and machine learning is another critical trend. Banks are employing these technologies for various purposes, from enhancing cybersecurity and fraud detection to using advanced analytics for operational efficiency and providing personalized customer experiences.

AI is particularly being leveraged to offer time-sensitive personalized product recommendations, improving clients’ financial wellness.

Navigating Economic Challenges and Client Expectations

2023 has brought about a paradigm shift in the wealth industry, driven by factors like changing demographics, generational wealth transfer, and rapid digitalization.

Customers now demand a broader range of investment options and a seamless service experience. The best private banks are responding to these needs by providing real-time data access, streamlined workflows, and utilizing multichannel and digital tools.

Challenges to Digital Banking Transformation

Despite these advancements, the sector faces challenges. Cultural resistance to change, limited resources, and the complexity of integrating legacy systems with new digital technologies are significant hurdles.

Additionally, ensuring data privacy and security remains a paramount concern as financial institutions handle increasing amounts of sensitive data.

Embracing Wealth-as-a-Service and Hybrid Models

The adoption of Wealth-as-a-Service (WaaS) infrastructures is gaining momentum. Partnerships between wealth managers and technology firms are breaking down traditional business silos, leading to improved customer experiences.

These partnerships often focus on areas such as direct digital brokerage platforms and private markets capabilities. The industry is also moving towards hybrid models, combining digital and human advisory services, to cater to a wider range of client preferences.

Personalization and Customization

Hyper-personalization and personalized indexing are becoming increasingly important. The ability to leverage customer data to create bespoke investment proposals is a trend gaining traction.

Advances in technology have facilitated the administration of personalized indexing, making it viable for a broader range of investors.

14 Best Private Banks in the World

1. J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Adjectives used to describe J.P. Morgan Private Bank could include “transparent.” It is for this reason that the bank is one of the best private banks in the world.

It publishes its financials quarterly for public consumption and is one of the few international banks to have made private banking a reportable segment. Furthermore, the financials are impressive.

In the first half of 2021, private banks had global revenue of $3.76 billion, up 14% from the previous year (YOY).

As of June 30, 2021, the private banking client segment’s assets under management (AUM) increased by 19% year over year to $752 billion.

With a total AUM of $3 trillion, which included the global institutional and global funds client segments, private banking accounted for about a quarter of the institution’s total AUM.

In the US and abroad, the bank received praise for private banking across a variety of regions and clientele. The company wins the title of Best Private Bank in the World for this year, as well as for 2021 and 2020.

The bank is aware that many high-net-worth (HNW) clients today have investing objectives related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

As a result, it decided in June to buy OpenInvest, a San Francisco-based values-based investing platform, enabling the private bank to build more customized portfolios for its HNW clients.

2. UBS

The leading private banking institutions in Switzerland weren’t the first to join the sustainable investing bandwagon, but they are now numerous and moving quickly. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

When UBS announced that sustainable investments would become its “preferred solution” for wealth management clients investing globally, it marked a significant advancement for one of the world’s largest banks to the wealthy.

UBS claims that by making the change, it became the first major global financial institution to recommend sustainable over traditional solutions for its wealthy clients, who have $1.2 trillion in invested assets.

Sustainable investments accounted for 18.9% of UBS’ advised investments by the end of 2020, up from just 13.5% in 2019.

Even among wealthy clients of UBS in the Asia-Pacific region, sustainable investments have recently increased dramatically, going from $1 billion in January 2020 to $4.5 billion by the end of June 2021.

Additionally, the bank is giving customers more options for investing.

Climate change, water, pollution and waste, people, products and services, and governance are the six sustainable investing pillars that UBS identified as being most crucial for guiding businesses and industries toward a sustainable future.

In July, UBS announced that its wealth management clients could begin customizing the advice they receive along these pillars.

ESG-based offerings’ inclusion hasn’t had a negative impact on profitability. The largest division of UBS, Global Wealth Management, reported a pretax profit of $4.2 billion for the first nine months of 2021, up 34% year over year.

3. Hana Bank

The Hana Bank in South Korea makes use of cutting-edge technology to support its cradle-to-grave private banking services—and isn’t afraid to have fun doing it. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

A local celebrity who works for Hana Bank demonstrates how to build and manage wealth in a bank-produced video. On YouTube, the video has received over 100,000 views. In other videos, challenging financial issues are addressed with the help of the bank’s internal tax, legal, real estate, and trust experts.

The bank asserts that it is of the opinion that clients want to be offered differentiated experiences across their entire lifestyle as well as financial services and that this is not just true for high net worth clients.

According to bank representatives, HB has developed cutting-edge digital private banking services for mass customers as well as VIP customers.

The bank provides specialized services in the HNW market for the entire family, not just the head or patriarch. Children’s activities for the grandchildren, “match-making” assistance for the adult children, and support services for weddings and funerals are a few examples.

In order to reach emerging millennials, Hana Bank has also introduced a brand-new digital service that combines finance with online games. The games were created by well-known Korean online game publisher Netmarble.

During the Covid-19 crisis, the bank launched life-care services via mobile social network services like YouTube and the Kakao talk channel. This was done in an effort to stay in touch with its customers.

Private banking at Hana Bank, which employs 731 people and serves 36,373 clients, increased its AUM to $58.3 billion in 2020 from $56.6 billion in 2019.

4. Fieldpoint Private

One of the wealth advisory and private banking boutiques with the fastest rate of growth worldwide is Fieldpoint Private, based in the US.  It is one of the best private banks in the world.

It started in Connecticut and has since spread to New York City, Georgia, and Florida. Most recently, it surpassed $5 billion in wealth AUM and $1 billion in bank balance-sheet assets.

Fieldpoint Private provides wealth transfer advice, tax planning, aggregation and performance reporting, risk management, goals-based investment strategies, investment selection, individualized banking, tailored credit offerings, bespoke custody and trust offerings, and concierge services for extremely wealthy people.

The symbiotic relationship between the firm’s banking and wealth advisory offerings—namely, providing commercial and personal banking along with investment guidance and wealth management—has been highlighted by Russell Holland, president and CEO of the firm’s banking unit.

In an August press release, he stated, “By understanding the big picture for our clients, we’re able to take care of all the small details[, allowing] our clients to focus less on the mechanics of their finances and wealth and more on running their businesses and enjoying their lives.”

Understanding Offshore Banking Benefits and Regulations

Offshore banking, a service offered by the best private banks, is witnessing significant changes in 2023. Let’s dive deeper into the current trends and regulations shaping offshore banking today.

Digitalization and Technological Advancements in Offshore Banking

Digitalization is revolutionizing offshore banking, making it more accessible and convenient. The best private banks are implementing mobile apps and online services, enhancing the offshore banking experience for clients.

This shift towards digital banking platforms is not only about convenience but also about efficiency and security, thanks to the integration of advanced AI and machine learning technologies.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency in Offshore Banking

Another trend emerging in offshore banking involves blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Offshore banks are increasingly utilizing blockchain for its high level of security, enabling more secure banking transactions.

This integration signifies the sector’s adaptation to modern technological demands and the growing interest in cryptocurrency markets.

Enhanced Security Measures

With the rise in online financial activities, offshore banks are prioritizing the protection of personal consumer information. The best private banks are continually updating their security measures to guard against hacking and other cyber threats, ensuring client information remains secure.

Regulatory Compliance and Transparency

Regulatory compliance is a key focus in the current offshore banking landscape. Offshore banks are adapting to stricter regulations and greater transparency requirements. This shift is driven by global efforts to enhance anti-money laundering initiatives and ensure customer due diligence.

Challenges and Adaptations

The offshore banking industry faces challenges such as cybersecurity and regulatory complexity. To remain competitive, the best private banks are adapting their strategies to meet these challenges, maintaining client trust while navigating an evolving regulatory environment.

Opportunities for Clients and Businesses

In this changing landscape, there are opportunities for clients and businesses to diversify assets, manage international transactions, and optimize tax structures through offshore banking. It’s crucial for individuals and businesses to stay informed and seek expert advice to navigate these trends effectively.

5. DBS Private Bank

Years before the Covid-19 pandemic, DBS was a pioneer in the provision of digital client services. While the pandemic was spreading, it won awards for digital transformation, and it is still innovating today.

In the early stages of the crisis, a Singaporean bank introduced TeleAdvisory, which enables clients to communicate with their wealth planning managers through videoconferencing tools. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

Additionally, DBS implemented a paperless credit submission process and increased active engagement and monitoring of credit portfolios through portfolio stress-testing intended to better prepare for pandemic challenges.

In 2021, the bank added new features to its DBS digibank (previously known as iWealth app), which enables wealthy clients to carry out daily banking transactions, manage their wealth, and invest anywhere at any time via their smartphones.

These new features include artificial intelligence (AI)-driven smart triggers that alert users regarding key equity and foreign exchange (FX) price movements and offer stock suggestions based on their specific investments and preferences.

More than 90% of equity purchases, 40% of fund and FX purchases, and 90% of private bank clients have access to digital services today.

The DBS Digital Exchange, a full-service members-only digital exchange for trading and holding digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, was launched by the bank in December 2020 and went live the following month.

This initiative was part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation. By the end of the year, DBS anticipates 1,000 users, and for the following three years, it projects annual growth of 20% to 30%.

With its Client Connect platform for smart-touch advisory and DBS digibank platform for self-directed online execution, the bank expects to use emerging technologies like AI and machine learning to “hyper-personalize” client engagement in the future.

As a result, DBS’ global private banking client assets increased by 264 billion Singapore dollars (roughly $195 billion) in 2020, up 7% year over year, while fee income in its wealth business increased by 11%.

6. BBVA

The BBVA Solidaridad fund, Spain’s first socially responsible investment vehicle, was launched in 1999, and the company is constantly looking for new ways to combine making money and doing good. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

The bank recently launched a socially conscious investment fund that donates a portion of its annual management fee to environmentally friendly initiatives.

Customers of BBVA’s private banking division now have access to its sustainability and impact investment options.

More than 84,000 people use BBVA’s private banks in Spain, Mexico, Portugal, Argentina, Peru, Switzerland, Turkey, Colombia, Uruguay, and Venezuela, making this a sizable group of clients. Globally, the private banks are in charge of managing €96 billion ($109 billion).

BBVA has received numerous honors for ESG over the years, including this year’s Global Finance Award for Financial Leadership in Sustaining Communities. The largest senior green bond ever issued in the eurozone was by BBVA in 2018.

7. Bank of America

The history of Bank of America’s (BofA) philanthropy is extensive. For 160 years, the US bank has provided endowments and foundations with investment advice. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

Additionally, it has 200 devoted philanthropic specialists who offer a wide range of services, such as investment outsourcing, consulting and advisory, administrative services, and specialty asset management, many of whom have at least ten years’ experience.

The charitable organization has also been kind with its internal time and services, imparting its knowledge to banks that are clients of other BofA divisions.

Recently, the group collaborated with BofA’s Global Commercial Bank’s nonprofit, healthcare, and education groups.

The group added $4.7 billion in record-breaking new philanthropic AUM mandates in the first half of 2021, making a significant contribution to the $50 billion in AUM that the private bank currently oversees for endowments, foundations, and nonprofits.

The Philanthropic Solutions group has seen a 40% increase in sales and a 65% increase in AUM over the last five years.

The Role of Private Banks in Sustainable and Ethical Investing

Current Trends and Outcomes

In 2023, the best private banks are at the forefront of sustainable and ethical investing, which is rapidly shaping the global financial landscape.

A key trend observed is the outperformance of sustainable funds compared to their traditional counterparts. In the first half of 2023, sustainable funds have seen a median return of 6.9%, significantly beating traditional funds’ 3.8%.

This performance indicates the growing resilience and attractiveness of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) funds, which now constitute about 8% of the total assets under management globally.

Driving Forces Behind Sustainable Investing

Several factors are driving this surge in sustainable investing. The growing interest and demand from investors, particularly among younger generations, is a significant driver.

Millennials, for instance, show a strong preference for sustainable brands and investments, reflecting a broader shift in consumer and investor values towards sustainability.

Moreover, private banks are leveraging their expertise to help clients navigate this landscape, focusing on large-scale, collaborative approaches that blend public and private funding.

This trend is not only creating lucrative investment opportunities but also contributing to broader economic and social benefits, such as advancing renewable energy, social equality, and sustainable transportation.

Innovations in Sustainable Banking Products

In response to customer demand, many banks are introducing innovative green banking products. These products range from environmentally-focused investment options to digital tools that help customers track and reduce their carbon footprint.

Such innovations reflect a commitment to aligning banking practices with climate action and sustainable lifestyles.

The Role of Regulation and Future Outlook

New regulations and evolving investor interest continue to shape the sustainable investing landscape. The best private banks are adapting to these changes by offering more diverse sustainable investing strategies across various assets and themes.

This adaptation is crucial as the financial sector anticipates a decade of transformative growth in sustainable finance, driven by factors such as the net-zero transition, increased demand for renewable resources, and more stringent regulatory environments.

8. Santander

The global private banking division of Banco Santander offers services to 217,600 clients in 11 nations.

It is a component of the Spanish bank’s Wealth Management and Insurance division, which has thrived ever since Victor Matarranz, the division’s global head, consolidated it four years ago. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

The division’s AUM were up 12% as of the third quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, and it contributed 16% more to group earnings overall.

Matarranz has been expanding the private bank division, which caters to ultrahigh-net-worth (UHNW) clients with assets exceeding €20 million, as well as globalizing the division’s offerings.

Currently, Santander has about 2,000 UHNW families worldwide, and on some of its offshore platforms, like those in the US, Switzerland, and the Bahamas, UHNW clients own half of the assets.

At the private bank, which strives to serve its UHNW client families before, during, and after generational wealth transfer occurs, intergenerational wealth has been a major area of focus. 

According to Matarranz, the first time a member of a new generation attends a family office meeting is a crucial turning point in this process.

That person frequently raises concerns, which can be unsettling to a patriarch who has long handled the family’s wealth without opposition. Still, everyone involved may learn something from it.

The geographic breadth of the private bank, which enables it to offer clients the same service outside of their countries of origin and in all other markets, is one factor in its success.

For instance, the group’s well-known investment fund, Santander Future Wealth, was created by Santander Asset Management Luxembourg and later marketed in the other markets of the group, such as Chile, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the US.

9. BTG Pactual Wealth Management

BTG Pactual is one of Latin America’s most active business lenders in normal times, but 2020—racked by the Covid-19 pandemic—wasn’t your average year. Nonetheless, it is one of the best private banks in the world.

Lockdowns that were required, terrified clients, and constrained suppliers all hurt business.

For the benefit of numerous companies in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and other Latin American nations, BTG Pactual Wealth Management supported its clients by offering them first-rate data, counsel, and liquidity.

Since the bank had record cash flows and one of the highest Basel ratios in its peer group, it was able to maintain exceptionally high levels of liquidity throughout the year.

When businesses most needed credit, the institution’s strong financial position allowed it to expand its credit offerings. The lending portfolio of BTG Pactual increased by 68% over the course of the year and was mainly made up of loans to extremely profitable counterparties.

Wealth management AUM and custody reached 153.9 billion Brazilian reais (roughly $27.8 billion) at the end of 2020, a 33% year-over-year increase despite difficult circumstances thanks to the support of its wealthier clients.

The wealth division’s staff grew by 20% thanks to the addition of 30 new team members.

Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer Strategies in Private Banking

The realm of estate planning and wealth transfer in private banking is continually evolving, with current trends reflecting a dynamic intersection of technology, legal changes, and client needs.

The best private banks are at the forefront of adapting to these changes, offering sophisticated solutions to their high-net-worth clients.

Embracing Digital Innovations in Estate Planning

Leading private banks are integrating digital tools into their estate planning services. This approach not only streamlines the process but also provides clients with more control and flexibility over their plans.

Innovations like cloud-based document drafting and management systems are becoming commonplace, allowing for more efficient administration and easier updating of estate planning documents.

Advanced Software Solutions

The best private banks are utilizing advanced software for various aspects of estate planning, including wills, trusts, and business law. These tools offer interactive templates and intelligent drafting systems, catering to the complex needs of diverse estates.

Adapting to Legal and Tax Changes

2023 has brought significant legal and tax considerations that impact estate planning.

The best private banks stay abreast of these changes, advising clients on how to optimize their plans in light of evolving regulations. Understanding the implications of tax exemptions and the potential expiration of certain benefits is crucial in this regard.

Navigating Global and Local Tax Laws

Private banks play a key role in helping clients understand both global and local tax implications related to estate planning. They provide expertise on how to structure assets in a tax-efficient manner, considering the client’s residency and the location of their assets.

Integrating Wealth Management Trends

Current trends in wealth management also influence estate planning strategies. Issues like geopolitical tensions, inflation, and shifts in investment environments require a recalibration of wealth transfer strategies.

The best private banks are guiding their clients through these complexities, ensuring that estate plans are resilient and adaptable to changing economic conditions.

Responding to Investment Environment Shifts

With the investment environment undergoing significant changes, private banks are advising clients on adjusting their investment strategies within their estate plans.

This includes reassessing asset allocations and considering new investment opportunities that have arisen due to higher yields and market shifts.

10. Citi Private Bank

About 13,000 clients, including 1,400 family offices and a quarter of the world’s billionaires, receive specialized financial services from Citi Private Bank (CPB), which employs about 500 private bankers and more than 700 investment specialists. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

Revenues for CPB increased by 6% from the same period in 2020 to $2.02 billion in the first half of 2021. The bank also saw a 30% increase in UHNW new client net worth, bringing the average to over $500 million.

Since the bank had record cash flows and one of the highest Basel ratios in its peer group, it was able to maintain exceptionally high levels of liquidity throughout the year.

When businesses most needed credit, the institution’s strong financial position allowed it to expand its credit offerings.

The lending portfolio of BTG Pactual increased by 68% over the course of the year and was mainly made up of loans to extremely profitable counterparties.

Wealth management AUM and custody reached 153.9 billion Brazilian reais (roughly $27.8 billion) at the end of 2020, a 33% year-over-year increase despite difficult circumstances thanks to the support of its wealthier clients.

The wealth division’s staff grew by 20% thanks to the addition of 30 new team members.

In order to set itself apart from other family offices and private banks, the private bank has a number of specialties, including art advisory, sports finance and advisory, and aircraft finance.

Despite the success of its private bank, Citi has recently taken a more relaxed approach to wealth management, focusing more on the mass-affluent customer segment and establishing a unified wealth management segment starting in January 2021.

It acknowledges the possibility that today’s mass-affluent consumers could develop into HNW or, in some cases, UHNW clients in the future.

Navigating Global Economic Trends with Private Banking Expertise

Adapting to a Changing Digital Landscape in Private Banking

In 2023, the best private banks are experiencing a transformative shift in their operations, primarily influenced by their clients’ growing interest in digital solutions.

Traditional face-to-face interactions and printed reports are becoming less favored as clients, especially the younger generation who are part of the Great Wealth Transfer, expect more digital engagement.

Banks are realizing the need to present themselves as constantly available digital platforms where clients can access real-time portfolio values and interactive services.

Credit Suisse’s Wealth Management app exemplifies this digital transition, offering 24/7 access and instantaneous insights.

This digitalization does not eliminate the need for human advisors but augments their role, facilitating a more interactive and efficient client-advisor relationship.

Wealth as a Service: A New Paradigm

The concept of “Wealth as a Service” is gaining traction among the best private banks. This approach involves offering a broader range of services, including access to new asset classes, ESG and philanthropy projects, professional advice, and lifestyle services.

The idea is to transform private banks into platforms that offer more than traditional banking services. They could become gateways to a variety of services provided by third-party partners, leveraging technologies like open banking APIs, Web3.0 platforms, and crypto exchanges.

This model could redefine the role of private banks, making them a comprehensive solution for clients’ diverse needs.

Economic Projections and Investment Strategies for 2023

As we delve deeper into 2023, it’s clear that the global economy is undergoing significant shifts. The impact of tighter monetary policies, high inflation, and slower growth is evident, necessitating prudent portfolio management.

However, the situation is expected to pivot once real interest rates peak, opening up new opportunities in risk assets. This transition will likely occur when the Federal Reserve pauses its interest rate hikes. The resilience of the U.S. job market will be a crucial factor in this shift.

Geopolitical and Economic Influences on Private Banking

The global economic landscape is diversifying, posing challenges and opportunities for the best private banks. Inflation rates are expected to remain above target in most countries, even as they start to decline from their peak.

The European Central Bank (ECB) and the Bank of England are expected to decrease interest rates in 2023, signaling a shift in monetary policy.

This change will have a significant impact on private banking strategies, influencing decisions on asset allocation, risk management, and client advisory.

The Future of Private Banking Amidst Economic Uncertainties

Looking ahead, private banks are navigating a complex environment characterized by slowing global growth, geopolitical tensions, climate change, and technological disruptions.

These factors are reshaping the banking industry, demanding adaptations in business models and investment strategies.

The best private banks are focusing on offering diverse and innovative solutions to meet these challenges, ensuring they remain at the forefront of client service and financial expertise.

11. Kotak Mahindra

Kotak Mahindra, one of India’s oldest private bankers, is said to oversee the wealth of 51 percent of the top 100 families in terms of wealth. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

The Mumbai-based bank has, however, also been vocal about the need to support India’s emerging business class. In order to achieve this, Kotak Wealth Management has created special programs for female and millennial entrepreneurs

For instance, the bank arranges meetings for these younger groups with successful businesspeople and professionals who share their insights and promote networking.

According to bank representatives, “Kotak Wealth believes that only when women begin to achieve their true economic potential will India achieve its full growth potential.”

The bank has released a number of reports on the subject to support its mission, one of which features India’s top 100 active female entrepreneurs.

These reports aim to “analyze and understand the evolution of key wealth creation trends among women,” as well as to showcase their achievements and overall contributions.

12. J. Safra Sarasin

Early in May, the Swiss-Brazilian private bank J Safra Sarasin announced that its agreement to purchase the Bank of Montreal’s private banking operations in Hong Kong and Singapore had been finalized (BMO). It is one of the best private banks in the world

As J Safra Sarasin sought to increase its presence in Asia, it was generally agreed that BMO’s diverse client base of UHNW clients would be a good fit.

AUM for the Basel-based bank group increased from 185.8 billion Swiss francs in 2019 to 192.4 billion Swiss francs (roughly $208 billion) at the end of 2020.

Switzerland accounted for the majority of that (100.1 billion francs), followed by Europe (excluding Switzerland, 54.5 billion francs) and Asia (18.1 billion francs). Certainly, that final element will develop.

The Asian business lines of BMO are probably not J Safra Sarasin’s final purchase. It has a well-established international growth strategy.

Since 2014, the bank has stated in nearly every annual report that it is “hungry for deals” and has outperformed all of its Swiss competitors with the exception of Julius Bär.

Andreas Pratz, a partner in PwC’s global strategy consulting business, is not surprised that the bank is focusing on the Singaporean market. Europe and North America are still important markets for private banking, but Singapore, in particular, has solidly cemented its position as a hub.

13. PNC Private Bank

Many believe that PNC Bank’s acquisition by PNC Financial of BBVA USA Bancshares will propel PNC Bank into a higher echelon of private banking companies, expanding its clientele and accelerating PNC’s family office services for the ultrawealthy.

With $560 billion in balance-sheet assets and a coast-to-coast national franchise, its acquisition in June elevated Pittsburgh’s PNC to the fifth-largest commercial bank in the US.

Additionally, it brought with it BBVA’s US wealth management division and the four-time champion private bank in the US Southwest region according to Global Finance. Additionally, PNC changed the names of BBVA USA and its wealth management division to PNC Private Bank.

BBVA USA’s recent acquisition of PNC “which allows us to have a coast-to-coast franchise, given their presence in the US Southwest and West,” according to Don Heberle, head of PNC Private Bank.

PNC has also been expanding its private banking reach by adding new clientele and personnel across the wealth spectrum, including “individuals who are just beginning their wealth accumulation journeys, such as corporate executives, doctors, lawyers and others, through to larger families and family offices.”

14. Scotia Wealth Management

With over 90,000 employees and $1.2 trillion in assets on its balance sheet, Scotiabank ranks third among banks in Canada. It is one of the best private banks in the world.

In 13 countries, including many in Latin America and the Caribbean, its Global Wealth Management division provides investment fund and advisory services to more than 1.5 million clients.

The private banking division of Scotia Wealth Management, as of the third quarter of this year, had $344 billion in AUM, an increase of 17% year over year, and $397 million in net income, a 20% increase year over year.

The division provides a wide range of services, such as private banking, estate and trust administration, investment management, as well as some more specialized ones like insurance planning. The bank’s Global Family Office Group caters to the UHNW market.

As “the only national financial services firm dedicated exclusively to the financial well-being of Canada’s physicians and their families,” according to the bank, Scotia also has an unusual but successful physician-focused wealth management division called MD Financial Management. 

The bank acquired MD Financial Management in 2018. As of July 29, 2021, the specialized wealth manager had AUM of over $59 billion.

Scotia recently disclosed that it is looking to expand its wealth management business by making acquisitions in the US. Due to historically low interest rates, Canadian banks continue to struggle with slow loan growth and narrow profit margins.

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