Eduard Berger, Member of the Board of Wiener Privatbank, gave an exclusive interview for the Banker media
Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Berger. Wiener Privatbank has positioned itself uniquely in the wealth and asset management space. Could you elaborate on your private bank’s core services and target groups?
– Thank you for having me. We take great pride in being a specialized private bank with an entrepreneurial spirit, based in Vienna, Austria. Our primary focus is to help our clients navigate the complexities of wealth management through a meticulously tailored approach. Our core services encompass private banking, asset management, fund management, financing, brokerage, research, and real estate investment solutions. We cater to a diverse clientele, including family offices, private investors, institutions, and foundations, both domestically and internationally. By communicating in an array of international languages, we ensure that our strategies align with the individual needs of each client, no matter their background or investment profile.
That sounds comprehensive. What do you believe distinguishes your bank from other financial institutions, particularly in wealth and asset management?
– One key differentiator for us is our status as a listed company. This necessity for transparency comes with certain challenges, but it ultimately enhances trust, which is critical in private banking. Many larger institutions often create a detachment that can make personal interaction difficult, but we emphasize close relationships with our clients. Additionally, we maintain a lower entry barrier for asset management services compared to other private banks. Our benchmark starts at 100,000 euros, allowing clients to access investment opportunities without undue hurdles. We aim to build long-term relationships based on trust and understanding, where clients feel secure with their investments and our personalized support.
In light of recent global market volatility, how does your bank approach investment strategies, particularly during downturns?
– That’s a pertinent question. During downturns, we shift our focus toward crisis-proof real estate investments, which provide stability and tax advantages. We believe in preserving wealth while also identifying attractive return opportunities in the real estate sector. This allows us to offer our clients a hedge against stock market fluctuations. Conversely, during bullish market periods, we rely on balanced and efficient investment strategies that capitalize on rising prices. Our ability to tailor these strategies quickly is facilitated by our smaller size, allowing us to be agile and responsive to market changes.
Austria has long been known as a hub for finance. What factors make Austria an appealing location for private banking and financial services?
– Austria boasts a unique advantage as a stable and secure investment location. It is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, with a high level of legal certainty, which is essential for wealthy investors. Additionally, the country offers excellent infrastructure and a skilled workforce. Our richly historical and cultural heritage in cities like Vienna attracts affluent individuals seeking investment opportunities in real estate, especially in historical buildings that hold great value. Our robust banking regulations and investor protection frameworks further enhance the confidence of clients considering Austria for their financial needs.
Finally, many clients today are looking for personalized services without unnecessary formalities. How does your bank address this demand?
– Personal service is at the heart of our philosophy. Being a smaller bank allows us to foster genuine relationships without the bureaucratic barriers often encountered in larger institutions. We take the time to understand each client’s unique situation and investment goals, tailoring our solutions accordingly. This personal touch extends to everything we do, ensuring that our clients feel valued and understood. We also have a dedicated team providing trusted FATCA solutions for US citizens while ensuring that personalization does not compromise the professionalism and high-quality service that are hallmarks of our brand.
Thank you, Eduard, for sharing such insightful perspectives on your bank and the future of asset management in Austria. We look forward to seeing your continued growth and success.
– Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing our vision and services with you. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our national and international clients and making a positive impact in the wealth management space.
Източник: Banker.bg
