Awards for Distinction 2024 – Best Private Bank – Philanthropy

Best Private Bank Philanthropy

 

UBS Global Wealth Management

Best Private Bank – Philanthropy

Dhun Davar

head of social impact, APAC, and head of social finance, Optimus

“We are deeply honoured to be recognised for our Philanthropy and Social Impact services for two consecutive years. This accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to driving positive change through innovative and impactful philanthropy.

“At UBS, we believe in the power of collaboration and aligning our clients’ passions with meaningful social impact. For over 25 years, we have been reimagining and redefining philanthropy, whether it is through approaches such as blended finance or collaborative philanthropy. We are also committed to transparency and impact measurement. The UBS Optimus Foundation, supporting over 100 programmes across Asia, exemplifies our commitment to shaping the philanthropy ecosystem globally and in Asia.

“This recognition is a privilege and a reflection of our clients’ trust and our shared vision for a better, more equitable world.”

What was behind the judges’ decision?

  • UBS offers a DAF with no setup or annual fees, full administrative cost coverage, and a seamless structure that aligns with clients’ investment approaches. This ensures a smooth and impactful giving experience for its clients.
  • The bank leverages innovative funding mechanisms, such as blended finance, DIBs, and impact loans, to mobilise private capital and scale philanthropic initiatives. UBS’s ability to combine philanthropy with financial expertise ensures long-term, sustainable impact. Since 2018, UBS Optimus Foundation has led social finance efforts in emerging markets, creating measurable and proven impact. The judging panel was impressed by the case studies.
  • UBS actively engages the next generation through education programmes, masterclasses, and exclusive communities. It provides a structured pathway for future philanthropists to develop impactful giving strategies, reinforcing its commitment to long-term, sustainable philanthropy.

What we said…

“UBS has set a benchmark in philanthropy through its UBS Optimus Foundation and a suite of impactful solutions designed to support clients in achieving meaningful, measurable change,” said Audrey Raj, senior consultant, South Asia editor of Asian Private Banker.

“The bank has actively engaged thousands of clients in philanthropy, reaching millions of beneficiaries. Its donor-advised fund (DAF) channel, exclusively for UBS clients, stands out for its cost-effectiveness, with UBS covering administration costs, making philanthropy more accessible and effective.

“UBS also fosters next-generation engagement, equipping future philanthropists with the education, resources, and networks necessary to drive sustainable impact. To secure long-term funding, UBS fosters donor trust by transparently sharing impact updates and funding needs.

“What’s more, by integrating social finance into philanthropy, the bank leverages innovative funding models such as development impact bonds (DIBs) and impact loans. UBS’s commitment to evidence-based, scalable philanthropy is demonstrated through its extensive due diligence, ensuring that clients’ contributions go toward high-impact programmes that address critical global challenges. For these reasons, the judging panel has awarded UBS the Best Private Bank – Philanthropy.”


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