The profitability of Swiss private banks will be hit by the SNB’s withdrawal of the currency ceiling and could speed up the shift of some operations overseas 

As global banks struggle with damaged reputations, smaller investment firms sense an opportunity to win market share and the recent M&A activity could be a sign of things to come

Only the biggest players have the reach and technological innovation necessary to compete on a global scale, but a deeper understanding of client needs is necessary

The impact of Russia’s actions in Ukraine has been felt far beyond those countries’ borders, and the consequences for European countries could be huge if the situation worsens

Europe’s wealthiest individuals are demanding relationships with private banks be run on their terms, but not all firms have embraced this new reality

A period of consolidation is underway as banks refocus efforts on their most profitable markets

Clients could end up with higher fees as private banks pull out of their unprofitable regions and implement new business models

With banks looking to deal with fewer providers and clients finding comfort in brand names, the biggest fund houses are on the up