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Delivering cross-border advice amid global protectionism

Market volatility and aggressive trade policies are compelling portfolio managers to hedge against geopolitical risk. Wealth managers are safeguarding assets by diversifying allocations, broadening equity exposure and supporting clients in the use of uncorrelated and unlisted investments. Investors are pinpointing sectors that may be boosted by Trump’s deregulation agenda, while defence funds are emerging as a new long-term thematic play.

On the business side, private banks are refining core competencies as higher interest rates and price-sensitive clients are squeezing profit margins. Some are doubling down on a strategy of serving the ultra-wealthy, while others are scaling automation for mass-affluent clients. The industry is ripe for M&A, and private equity backed consolidators are seeking to leverage economies of scale and capitalise on the sector’s growth potential. How are incumbents reimagining their operational models and expanding their cross-border capabilities as competition grows between rival wealth hubs?