What is independent asset management?

In general, an asset manager manages the assets of his/her client and advises them in matters of finance and capital.

Independent asset managers are additionally distinguished by the manner in which they look after the customer's assets according to their own convictions, meaning, free from third-party influence. One benefit to the customer is that the choice of investment products is not limited. Furthermore, an independent asset manager often has more time for his/her customers and thus provides more thorough advice and in a more diverse framework. The asset manager acts on behalf of the client through a power of attorney. The customer's capital lies in an account in a deposit bank.

What activities does an independent asset manger engage in?

An independent asset manager can operate classic asset management or may also be specialised in specific investment categories or products. Many independent asset managers look after all wealth management matters for their clients. That means that they go beyond banking-type asset management and offer additional services, such as tax advising.

What is meant by "classic asset management"
When practicing classic asset management, the asset manager compiles a client profile on the basis of an extensive personal meeting, which thoroughly mirrors the client's financial situation, ability to bear risk and tolerance for it. Based on this profile, the asset manager defines the investment goals together with the client. The asset manager either constructs a portfolio upon these, which is exactly matched to the client's individual investment goals, or he/she invests the customer's capital according to the investment goals in a standard portfolio. The asset manager makes the investment decisions according to his/her own convictions, however always in the interest of the client within the scope of the investment goals agreed upon.

What specialisations exist?
Some independent asset managers are specialised in specific investment categories, including currencies, private equity investments or specific financial products, such as their own funds or structured products. Such offerings are generally not aimed at private customers, but at other asset managers, banks and institutional customers.

What additional services are offered by independent asset managers?
The broad spectrum of services offered often go beyong banking-like asset management. Such activities can include: all types of investment business, tax advising, retirement savings planning, consolidation of capital, enhancing security through insurance, development of real-estate portfolios, successor and inheritance planning, setting of inheritance issues, legal advising, financial advising, cash management, commercial deals and much more.