In this article, we’re exploring the list of private banks in Switzerland. We’ll share a catalog of financial firms and a list of banks in Switzerland that fall into the category of private Swiss banks and answer common questions we receive from people exploring this topic.
This article is part of our free series on the list of banks in Switzerland. You can access this series right now by using the link above.
In addition to detailed account opening guides, this free series on Swiss banking also discusses the largest banks in Switzerland, Switzerland’s opening requirements, the costs of banking in Switzerland, and much more. Use the link above to start exploring all of your free Swiss banking content right now.
Alternatively, use the table of contents to continue exploring more information on the list of private banks in Switzerland.
Table of Contents
- List of Private Banks in Switzerland
- Who Can Open Private Accounts With Swiss Banks?
- Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions
- Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?
List of Private Banks in Switzerland
The list of private banks in Switzerland includes some of the world’s largest and most sophisticated financial institutions. These banks specialize in tailored financial services, including wealth management, asset management, investment planning, estate planning, and much more.
Private banks in Switzerland are regulated and managed by the Swiss Financial Market Authority (FINMA), just like the list of commercial banks, retail banks, international banking groups, and the list of foreign banks in Switzerland. These banks must adhere to risk management protocols, client confidentiality, and anti-money laundering measures.
Here is a list of five private banks that operate in Switzerland.
Private Banks in Switzerland
- UBS
- Julius Baer
- Pictet Group
- Lombard Odier
- EFG International
It’s important to note that these are only five of the 125-plus Swiss private institutions found under the list of regulated banks in Switzerland and not all of them are suitable for every client type.
Like all banks in Switzerland, each private bank will have its own account opening procedures, requirements, and deposit amounts. It’s important to choose banks that accept similar client profiles, have requirements you can meet, and align with your banking needs.
Why Do People Open Private Bank Accounts in Switzerland?
People open bank accounts in Switzerland because Swiss banks are well-managed, sophisticated, and reputable. Swiss banks typically attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who are willing and able to support sizeable deposits and who are looking for tailored banking solutions.
Banking in Switzerland, as mentioned above, is not for everyone. We share details on who can open private bank accounts in Switzerland in the next section below.
Who Can Open Private Accounts With Swiss Banks?
Both domestic and international banking clients can open private accounts with Swiss banks. Swiss banking, however, is often reserved for high-net-worth individuals (and entities) seeking sophisticated financial services, such as wealth management, asset management, investment banking, and estate planning services.
It’s important to note, that while non-residents are eligible for bank accounts in Switzerland, not all Swiss banks will accept them.
Additionally, private banks in Switzerland can afford to pick and choose who they open accounts for. This is why bank selection is a very important factor to consider when choosing where to open a private bank account in Switzerland.
Here is a closer look at the five client types that can open a bank account in Switzerland.
Client Types That Can Open Bank Accounts With Swiss Banks
- Foreign non-residents
- Foreign companies
- Wealth management entities
- International investors
- Expatriates
Individuals who fall into these categories can apply to open accounts with private banks in Switzerland. They are required to make a sizeable deposit of USD 500,000 to USD 3,000,000, invest a large portion of their deposit, and pay the bank to manage their money.
If you are interested in learning more about banking in Switzerland, don’t forget to visit our comprehensive guide on banking in Switzerland, available in the link above.
Alternatively, if you would like to explore all of your offshore banking options, download our free guide and compare Switzerland to some of the top banking jurisdictions available.
Do You Want to Explore All Your Offshore Banking Options?
Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people exploring the list of private banks in Switzerland. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
How Many Swiss Private Banks Are There?
There are more than 125 Swiss private banks currently operating in Switzerland, including some of the best private banks in the world. These private banks can be difficult to access as a foreign non-resident. Knowing which Swiss private banks accept your profile and align with your banking needs is an important factor to consider.
What American Banks Are in Switzerland?
There are five American banks in Switzerland. These five American banks include J.P Morgan (Suisse), CitiBank (Switzerland), Bank Morgan Stanley Ltd, and Goldman Sachs Bank AG. Each of these banks offers a variety of different banking services and products including wealth management, private banking, investment banking, and more.
Which Is the Best Private Bank in Switzerland?
The best private bank in Switzerland depends on the applicant looking to open accounts. This is because not all banks in Switzerland accept the same clients, offer the same services, or provide the same level of quality or value. As a result, one private bank in Switzerland may be better suited to one client than another. This is why bank selection is critical when choosing where to open a private bank account in Switzerland.
Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?
If so, you can access GlobalBanks IQ and start the process of applying in Switzerland in a few clicks.
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And “yes!” GlobalBanks IQ helps foreigners and non-resident individuals open bank accounts.
In fact, GlobalBanks IQ even helps non-resident, foreign & offshore entities open bank accounts.
To learn more about opening accounts with GlobalBanks IQ, use the link in the top menu. Or, contact us directly with any questions!
