Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

Upon joining the SAAM, active members obligate themselves to follow the SAAM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. They thus signal their intention to conduct independent asset management in an ethically proper and professional manner. They thereby make an effective contribution to the protection of investors and the good reputation of the profession of Swiss independent asset managers in Switzerland and abroad. They also make an essential contribution to the combating of money laundering.

The Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct are a strict body of rules for the practicing of independent asset management. It takes into consideration all important aspects of the asset management business in a balanced manner. Included among these are the obligation of acting in the customer's interest, the creation of transparent circumstances and the combating of malpractice.

The Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct specifically contain rules concerning the independence of asset managers. They also refine and specify the legal requirements regarding asset management assignments and establish a minimum standard to be maintained for a written asset management contract. In addition, they contain principles of secrecy and for the prohibition of illicit investment business.

The SAAM sets benchmarks
Through the comprehensive Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, the SAAM supervises adherence to the requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering Act and the serious and professional practice of independent asset management. This essentially differentiates it from other self-regulatory bodies in terms of the AMLA and also makes SAAM membership a seal of quality.

As the leading industry association for independent asset managers, the SAAM sets benchmarks. The professional and ethical requirements of the SAAM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct were recognized by the Federal Court as professional standards. Although the SAAM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct are only binding for active members connected to the SRO (Self-regulatory Body), they are widely observed and recognized beyond the borders of the SAAM.

• Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct