Choosing an asset manager

How do I find a good asset manager who earns the trust I place in him/her?
The SAAM recommends that you ask around among your friends and acquaintances for personal recommendations. Trustees and attorneys can generally also provide you with addresses for experienced and proven asset managers. There is, unfortunately, no patented receipt for 100% security - as is the case for this sector.

What distinguishes an asset manager who is a member of the SAAM?
With an independent asset manager who is affiliated with the SAAM, as investor you can be sure that the asset manager is not only supervised for adherance to the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), but also for adherance to the SAAM's internal Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. These stipulate an ethical standard for the practicing of asset management for independent asset managers. These are the leading Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct in the Swiss independent management industry. These strict standards and rules make membership in the SAAM a seal of approval for quality, professionalism and ethics. As a conscientious trade association, the SAAM is dedicated to providing effective investor protection.

As an investor, how can I check that an asset manager is serious?
The following principles can assist you in the choice of an asset manager:

• Is the asset manager affiliated with a self-regulating body (SRO) or directly affiliated with the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA)? In order to be active in Switzerland, an asset manager must be affiliated with one of those.
• Is the asset manager listed in the telephone book and also in the commercial register? Are his/her office premises clearly labelled with sign in front of the building?
• Can you set up an appointment with your asset manager at any time?
• Request information documents and contracts from the asset manager and review them.
• The asset manager should create an investment profile matched to your specific needs. To do so, he/she should carefully analyse your financial situation, investment goals, investment horizon and your risk tolerance.
• The asset manager should always conclude a written asset management contract with you. This contract should at least contain the minimum requirements of Annex A of the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

If you are uncertain, then the SAAM is standing by to assist you.