Question 1

What is UBP?

Accepted Answer

UBP (Union Bancaire Privée, UBP SA) is a Swiss private bank operating in Hong Kong as a licensed bank regulated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. It is one of the largest family-owned private banks in Switzerland, specializing in private banking and asset management for high net worth individuals and institutional clients.

UBP Hong Kong is part of a global network with over 2,100 employees worldwide and manages assets exceeding CHF 184 billion. The Hong Kong branch focuses on delivering highly customized investment solutions, wealth planning, and family office services to clients across the North Asia region.

Question 2

When was UBP founded?

Accepted Answer

UBP was founded in Geneva, Switzerland on November 11, 1969, by Edgar de Picciotto. It was originally established as Compagnie de Banque et d'Investissements (CBI).

In 1990, CBI acquired TDB-American Express Bank, which led to the creation of Union Bancaire Privée as it exists today. The bank has been present in Hong Kong since the early 1990s, establishing its operations as part of a broader Asia expansion strategy that has continued for over three decades.

Question 3

Where is UBP headquartered?

Accepted Answer

UBP's global headquarters are located at Rue du Rhône 96-98, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland. This head office in the center of Geneva is the largest of UBP's sites worldwide and serves as one of eleven booking centers the bank operates across major financial hubs.

The Hong Kong branch maintains its principal place of business at Level 26, AIA Central, 1 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong.

Question 4

Where does UBP operate?

Accepted Answer

In Hong Kong, UBP operates primarily from its Central district office, serving clients across the broader North Asia region including Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The Hong Kong hub is UBP's center for North Asia operations and is considered a key strategic location for the bank's regional growth.

UBP has expanded its Greater China footprint with offices in Shanghai and Haikou in Hainan province. The bank has also secured a Qualified Domestic Limited Partnership (QDLP) license in Hainan, making it the first Swiss wealth manager to obtain such a license in that province. Over 300 wealth management professionals are based across UBP's Hong Kong and Singapore operations combined.

Question 5

What services does UBP offer?

Accepted Answer

UBP Hong Kong offers comprehensive private banking and wealth management services to high net worth individuals and institutional clients. Core services include fund and asset management, securities dealing, financial advisory services, and bespoke portfolio management.

The bank provides specialized wealth planning and family office services through a team of seasoned wealth planners supported by family office specialists. UBP's investment proposition centers on three niche capabilities: bespoke mandates, credit solutions, and alternatives including private markets access.

Additionally, UBP Asset Management Asia Ltd, a separate entity registered with the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, offers asset management services to institutional clients including pension funds, insurance companies, and family offices. The bank provides e-banking services for convenient account access and portfolio viewing.

Question 6

What makes UBP unique?

Accepted Answer

UBP distinguishes itself as a family-owned institution with exceptional financial stability. As of recent reports, the bank maintains a Tier 1 capital ratio exceeding 28% and holds a Moody's long-term deposit rating of Aa2, making it one of the best-capitalized banks in Switzerland.

The bank's independent, entrepreneurial nature allows for agile decision-making and customized client solutions without the constraints of publicly-traded bank structures. UBP's Greater China focus has driven approximately 75% of its Asian growth over the past five years, demonstrating deep regional commitment.

The Hong Kong operation benefits from direct integration with UBP's global investment platform while maintaining local expertise. The bank emphasizes conservatism and risk management, characteristics particularly valued by Asian ultra-high net worth families seeking stability and discretion.

Question 7

What type of financial institution is UBP?

Accepted Answer

UBP operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the supervision of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. It holds a full banking license, which allows it to conduct a comprehensive range of banking and wealth management activities.

More specifically, UBP is classified as a private bank specializing in wealth management and asset management services. This positions it within Hong Kong's specialized banking sector focused on serving affluent and institutional clients rather than retail mass-market banking. The bank's separate asset management entity holds Type 1 (dealing in securities), Type 4 (advising on securities), and Type 9 (asset management) licenses from the Securities and Futures Commission, enabling comprehensive investment management capabilities.

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About UBP in Hong Kong