The
categories
Whole of Business Awards
Best Independent Wealth Manager Asia Pacific
Best Private Bank Advisory Services
Best Private Bank Family Offices
Best Private Bank Asia Pacific HNW
Private Bank Family Offices
Private Bank Greater China
Private Bank Southeast Asia
Best Private Bank Asia Pacific UHNW
Best Private Bank – Asia Pacific
Winners
Best Private Bank – Pure Play
Winners
Best Private Bank – Greater China
Winners
Best Private Bank – Southeast Asia
Winners
Best Private Bank – Wealth Continuum
Winners
Best Private Bank – Integrated Platform
Winners
Best Private Bank – Global Platform
Winner
Best Boutique Private Bank – Asia Pacific New
Best Boutique Private Bank – Greater China New
Best Boutique Private Bank – Southeast Asia New
Employer of the Year
The prestigious Employer of the Year award recognises a private bank or wealth manager that has implemented initiatives intended to make it an outstanding place to work for employees across front-, middle- and back-office, as well as other departments crucial to its day-to-day running. Such initiatives can include, but are not limited to: compensation, professional development, employee wellbeing, work/life balance, charitable and environmental programmes, and diversity/equity/inclusion. The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel invites industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Learning & Development New
Individual Awards
CIO Office of the Year
Private Banker of the Year
The coveted Private Banker of the Year title is awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to his or her institution in the Asia Pacific region and to the industry as a whole. The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel invites industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winners
COO of the Year
The envied COO of the Year award recognises an individual who has spearheaded a private banking business’s quest to achieve operational excellence and compliance, and for the year under consideration, has successfully overseen initiatives that enhance the operational cohesiveness and efficiency of the organisation. The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel invites industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winners
Market Head of the Year
The new Market Head of the Year award honours an individual who has proven to be a capable and skilled leader of a geographic market or markets in the region. The individual should manage and inspire a team of relationship managers in either a single market or a collection of markets, and may also run their own book of business.
Our Market Head of the Year should have a demonstrable track record in attracting and retaining private banking talent to their institution and be able to show evidence of how their management of that team has directly contributed to their private bank’s success. The Judging Panel will also look favourably on activities less directly related to business performance, such as philanthropic endeavours, charity work and off-site team-building.
The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel invites industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winner
Rising Star of the Year
The Rising Star of the Year award recognises a relationship manager, market head, investment counsellor or other client-facing private banking professional whose efforts and achievements over the last year have earned them significant acclaim from their colleagues, clients and/or other relevant stakeholders.
The Judging Panel will take into account achievements across any and all private banking functions and roles, ranging from front office investment advisory to portfolio management, to back-office technology and operational projects, to charitable/philanthropic work and human relations.
The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel invites industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
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Independent Wealth Manager of the Year New
The new Independent Wealth Manager of the Year award honours an individual who has successfully made the transition from private banking to building and leading an independent wealth management business. The award recognises entrepreneurial drive, client dedication, and the ability to establish a sustainable and competitive platform outside of the traditional banking model.
Our Independent Wealth Manager of the Year should demonstrate a clear track record of business growth, innovative investment solutions, and an unwavering commitment to client service. The Judging Panel will also consider evidence of how the individual has contributed to raising professional standards in the IWM industry, including mentoring, thought leadership, or advancing collaboration between private banks and independent firms.
The Panel will look favourably on activities beyond business performance, such as efforts to promote the independent wealth management model, contributions to industry development, client education initiatives, or broader community engagement that enhance the standing of the IWM sector.
The winner is chosen at the discretion of the Judging Panel and, as such, there is no formal submission process for this award. However, the Judging Panel welcomes industry input and nominations.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Market Segment Awards
Best Domestic Independent Wealth Manager India
Best Independent Wealth Manager China
Best Independent Wealth Manager China Domestic
Best Independent Wealth Manager India Domestic
Best Private Bank Discretionary Portfolio Management
Best Private Bank Hong Kong
Best Private Bank India Domestic
Best Private Bank Singapore
Best Private Bank Sustainable Investments and Impact
Best Private Bank Thailand Domestic
Best Wealth Manager China Domestic
Best Wealth Manager Client Experience
Best Wealth Manager India Domestic
Best Private Bank Taiwan Domestic
Best Private Bank Taiwan International
Best International Private Bank China
Best International Private Bank Australia
Best Private Bank Indonesia International
Best Private Bank Japan
Best Private Bank Japan Domestic
Best Private Bank Malaysia International
Best Private Bank North Asia HNW
Best Private Bank South Asia HNW
Best Private Bank South Asia UHNW
Best Private Bank Thailand International
Best Private Bank Philippines International
Best Private Bank South Asia
Private Bank India
Private Bank Singapore HNW
International Private Bank Taiwan
Private Bank Hong Kong HNW
Private Bank Hong Kong UHNW
Independent Wealth Manager India
Best Domestic Private Bank India
Best Domestic Private Bank Philippines
Best Private Bank Philippines Domestic
Best Domestic Private Bank Malaysia
Best Private Bank Malaysia Domestic
Best Private Bank Middle East & North Africa
Best Private Bank NRI
Private Bank Global Indians
Independent Wealth Manager Hong Kong
Independent Wealth Manager Singapore
Best Domestic Private Bank Indonesia
Best Domestic Private Bank Australia
Best Private Bank China International
Best Private Bank Middle East
Domestic Private Bank India
Best Private Bank North Asia
Best Private Bank North Asia UHNW
Best Domestic Private Bank China
Best Private Bank China Domestic
Best Private Bank – Hong Kong HNW
This award recognises a private bank whose business in serving the HNW segment in Hong Kong has outperformed its peers in meeting and exceeding the needs of its clients, and achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The Judging Panel recognises that the Hong Kong market includes domestic and offshore clients. The specific definition of HNW is left at the discretion of the institution making the submission.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Hong Kong UHNW
This award recognises a private bank whose business in serving the UHNW segment in Hong Kong has outperformed its peers in meeting and exceeding the needs of its clients, and achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The Judging Panel recognises that the Hong Kong market includes domestic and offshore clients. The specific definition of UHNW is left at the discretion of the institution making the submission.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Singapore HNW
This award recognises a private bank whose business in serving the HNW segment in Singapore has outperformed its peers in meeting and exceeding the needs of its clients, and achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The Judging Panel recognises that the Singapore market includes domestic and offshore clients. The specific definition of HNW is left at the discretion of the institution making the submission.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Singapore UHNW
This award recognises a private bank whose business in serving the UHNW segment in Singapore has outperformed its peers in meeting and exceeding the needs of its clients, and achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The Judging Panel recognises that the Singapore market includes domestic and offshore clients. The specific definition of UHNW is left at the discretion of the institution making the submission.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Independent Wealth Manager – Hong Kong
This award recognises excellence in investments, wealth planning and other services at an external/independent asset manager or multi-family office whose primary business is private wealth management in Hong Kong.
The winner will need to demonstrate for the year under consideration (i) a track record of identifying, meeting, and exceeding the needs of its clients across investments and services, (ii) business momentum and growth in line with strategic imperatives, and (iii) progress in preparing the business for the future.
Applicants will be assessed across five criteria: (i) Client Assets, (ii) Business Strategy & Performance, (iii) Platform & Offering, (iv) Human Capital, and (v) Client Experience.
It is open to external/independent asset managers and multi-family offices with a presence in the Hong Kong market and whose primary business is private wealth management.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards Submission Sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winner
Best Independent Wealth Manager – Singapore
This award recognises excellence in investments, wealth planning and other services at an external/independent asset manager or multi-family office whose primary business is private wealth management in Singapore.
The winner will need to demonstrate for the year under consideration (i) a track record of identifying, meeting, and exceeding the needs of its clients across investments and services, (ii) business momentum and growth in line with strategic imperatives, and (iii) progress in preparing the business for the future.
Applicants will be assessed across five criteria: (i) Client Assets, (ii) Business Strategy & Performance, (iii) Platform & Offering, (iv) Human Capital, and (v) Client Experience.
The category is open to external/independent asset managers and multi-family offices with a presence in the Singapore market and whose primary business is private wealth management.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards Submission Sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winner
Best Independent Wealth Manager – China Onshore New
This award recognises the independent wealth manager with operations in mainland China that delivers exceptional client service to Chinese individuals and families. The winner will demonstrate strong alignment of interests with clients, active and hands-on management of financial assets, and long-term support in wealth planning and preservation.
It is open to external/independent asset managers and multi-family offices whose primary business is private wealth management within the China onshore market.
The winner will need to demonstrate for the year under consideration:
- (i) an exemplary track record of identifying, meeting, and exceeding the needs of its clients across investments and services,
- (ii) strong and sustainable business momentum and growth in line with strategic imperatives, and
- (iii) tangible progress in preparing the business for the future.
Applicants will be assessed across five criteria, with emphasis on relative (YoY) progress in the context of stated objectives: Client Assets, Business Strategy & Performance, Platform & Offering, Human Capital, Client Experience.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best Independent Wealth Manager – China Offshore New
This award celebrates the independent wealth manager serving Chinese clients from offshore hubs. The winner will be distinguished by their ability to provide superior client service, aligning interests with clients while offering hands-on management of financial assets and enduring support for cross-border wealth planning and family needs.
It is open to external/independent asset managers and multi-family offices whose primary business is private wealth management for Chinese clients in offshore markets.
The winner will need to demonstrate for the year under consideration:
- (i) an exemplary track record of identifying, meeting, and exceeding the needs of its clients across investments and services,
- (ii) strong and sustainable business momentum and growth in line with strategic imperatives, and
- (iii) tangible progress in preparing the business for the future.
Applicants will be assessed across five criteria, with emphasis on relative (YoY) progress in the context of stated objectives: Client Assets, Business Strategy & Performance, Platform & Offering, Human Capital, Client Experience.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best Independent Wealth Manager – India
This award celebrates the independent wealth manager in India that provides a superlative client service built on an alignment of interests, the hands-on management of financial assets, and helping individuals and families plan and prepare for the future.
It is open to external/independent asset managers and multi-family offices with a presence in India and whose primary business is private wealth management. The winner will need to demonstrate for the year under consideration: (i) an exemplary track record of identifying, meeting, and exceeding the needs of its clients across investments and services, (ii) strong and sustainable business momentum and growth in line with strategic imperatives, and (iii) tangible progress in preparing the business for the future.
Applicants will be assessed across five criteria where the emphasis is on relative (YoY) progress in the context of stated objectives: (i) Client Assets, (ii) Business Strategy & Performance, (iii) Platform & Offering, (iv) Human Capital, and (v) Client Experience.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Global Indians
This award recognises a private bank whose Global Indians business has outperformed its peers in meeting and exceeding the needs of its non-resident Indian (NRI) clients, and achieved/maintained strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The Judging Panel recognises that the Global Indian segment is not exclusive to any one region and thus, for many banks, the service they provide to Global Indians incorporates multiple geographies/centres and demands coordination across regions. For the purposes of this award, a submission, where possible, should describe the bank’s global approach to this client segment.
However, given the Asia-focus of this awards programme, an emphasis should be placed on the Asia portion of the business including (if relevant) interactivity with onshore India. Therefore, it is up to the bank how it wants to present its Global Indians submission with regards to framing the offering and providing business performance details, so long as Asia is accounted for.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – India
This award recognises a licensed private bank whose business in the onshore India market has outperformed its peers in terms of the needs of clients and achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
The award is open to private banks headquartered either in India or internationally, but submitting institutions must actively provide private banking services within the onshore India market.
Private banks that also serve the non-resident India (NRI) market elsewhere may also apply, but the Judging Panel will assess submissions purely on the onshore India component of their business. For those that wish to include their NRI business in a submission, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Global Indians’ category.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best International Private Bank – China Onshore New
This award recognises the international private bank whose China onshore business has outperformed peers in addressing client needs and achieving strong business momentum during the year under consideration.
To be eligible, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located outside of the respective country/market, i.e. in Hong Kong, Singapore, or elsewhere. Locally headquartered banks are not eligible for the international categories, but may apply for our ‘China Wealth Awards’ launching in early 2026 or for the ‘Best Private Bank’ categories.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best International Private Bank – China Offshore New
This award recognises the international private bank whose China offshore business has outperformed peers in addressing client needs and achieving strong business momentum during the year under consideration.
To be eligible, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located outside of the respective country/market, i.e. in Hong Kong, Singapore, or elsewhere. Locally headquartered banks are not eligible for the international categories, but may apply for our ‘China Wealth Awards’ launching in early 2026 or for the ‘Best Private Bank’ categories.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best International Private Bank – Thailand
The above awards recognise global private banks whose domestic businesses in their specific onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and have achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
To be considered for one of the above awards, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located outside of their respective market, i.e. in Hong Kong, Singapore, or elsewhere.
Locally-headquartered banks may not apply for the international categories, yet may apply for the ‘Best Domestic Private Bank’ and/or ‘Best Private Bank’ set of categories for individual regional markets detailed after this set of awards.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best International Private Bank – Taiwan
The above awards recognise global private banks whose domestic businesses in their specific onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and have achieved strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
To be considered for one of the above awards, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located outside of their respective market, i.e. in Hong Kong, Singapore, or elsewhere.
Locally-headquartered banks may not apply for the international categories, yet may apply for the ‘Best Domestic Private Bank’ and/or ‘Best Private Bank’ set of categories for individual regional markets detailed after this set of awards.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Domestic Private Bank – Thailand
The above awards recognise private banks whose domestic businesses in their specific onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and in achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
To be considered for a domestic award, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located in the domestic market in question.
International banks may not apply for the domestic categories, yet may apply for the ‘Best International Private Bank’ and/or ‘Best Private Bank’ set of categories for individual regional markets detailed immediately prior to this set of awards.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
In the case of joint ventures, the judging panel will consider exceptions within the international/domestic bank classification on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration factors such as heritage, branding, ownership, and exchange listing(s).
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Markets submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Domestic Private Bank – Taiwan
The above awards recognise private banks whose domestic businesses in their specific onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and in achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
To be considered for a domestic award, a bank’s regional headquarters must be located in the domestic market in question.
International banks may not apply for the domestic categories, yet may apply for the ‘Best International Private Bank’ and/or ‘Best Private Bank’ set of categories for individual regional markets detailed immediately prior to this set of awards.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
In the case of joint ventures, the judging panel will consider exceptions within the international/domestic bank classification on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration factors such as heritage, branding, ownership, and exchange listing(s).
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Markets submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Philippines
The above awards recognise private banks whose businesses in the specific countries’ onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
For the purposes of the above awards, the judging panel will consider both locally-headquartered and internationally-headquartered institutions.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Australia
The above awards recognise private banks whose businesses in the specific countries’ onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
For the purposes of the above awards, the judging panel will consider both locally-headquartered and internationally-headquartered institutions.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Best Private Bank – Malaysia
The above awards recognise private banks whose businesses in the specific countries’ onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
For the purposes of the above awards, the judging panel will consider both locally-headquartered and internationally-headquartered institutions.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Indonesia
The above awards recognise private banks whose businesses in the specific countries’ onshore markets have outperformed their peers in terms of the needs of clients and achieving strong business momentum for the year under consideration.
For the purposes of the above awards, the judging panel will consider both locally-headquartered and internationally-headquartered institutions.
The Judging Panel recognises that each market is subject to its own regulatory framework and idiosyncrasies. Therefore, each submission should include a brief contextual overview of the market in question.
Please refer to the Whole of Business and Market Segment Awards submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
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Service Awards
Best Private Bank Credit and Financing
Best International Private Bank Digital Innovation & Services
Best Private Bank Client Experience
Best Private Bank Family Office Services
Best Private Bank High Net Worth Services
Best Private Bank HNW Services
Best Private Bank Learning & Development
This award recognises a private bank that demonstrates excellence in developing the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of its workforce across all levels, with a strong emphasis on regulatory awareness and compliance. The award celebrates institutions that create a culture of continuous learning, enabling employees to adapt to evolving client needs, regulatory environments, and industry best practices.
The winning bank should show evidence of:
- Comprehensive training programmes covering technical expertise, client service, leadership, and ethical standards in an innovative way
- Initiatives that embed regulatory knowledge and compliance into day-to-day operations, ensuring staff are equipped to meet the highest standards of governance
- Innovative learning approaches, including digital learning platforms, mentorship programmes, and knowledge-sharing practices
- Measurable outcomes, such as improved performance, staff engagement, retention, or compliance adherence
- Efforts to future-proof the workforce, preparing teams for emerging challenges in private banking, including digitalisation, evolving client expectations, and regulatory change
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Best Private Bank Next Generation Programme
Best Private Bank Philanthropic Services
Best Private Bank Tech Disruption
Best Private Bank Wealth Planning Services
Best Private Bank Client Experience and Concierge
Private Bank Client Experience & Lifestyle
Private Bank Wealth Planning
Best Private Bank Corporate Social Responsibility
Best Private Bank Digital Experience
Best Private Bank Digital Innovation
Best Private Bank Intermediary Services
Best Private Bank UHNW Services
Best Private Bank Ultra High Net Worth Services
Best Private Bank IAM Services
International Private Bank Digital Innovation & Services
Private Bank Philanthropy
Best Independent Wealth Manager Wealth Planning Services
Best Private Bank Growth Strategy of the Year
Best Private Bank Training & Development
International Private Bank Digital Innovation and Services
Private Bank Intermediaries
Private Bank Client Experience and Concierge
Domestic Private Bank Digital Innovation and Services
Best Domestic Private Bank Digital Innovation and Services
Best Wealth Manager Digital Innovation
Best Wealth Manager High Net Worth Services
Best Private Bank Alternative Investment Services
Private Bank Next Generation Services
Best Domestic Private Bank Digital Innovation & Services
Best Private Bank – Family Office
This award recognises a private bank that has excelled in providing services to family office clients in Asia across investment and non-investment needs. In addition to demonstrating a strong track record of delivering ideas and access to institutional offerings and bespoke solutions, submissions should emphasise how value is added in the form of content, access to experts and networks, and family-focused services.
- Articulate the strategy behind the organisation’s approach to providing services to family office clients in Asia with an emphasis on competitive differentiation
- Detail the offering across investments and non-investment services in Asia including key enhancements made during the year under consideration
- Show how the bank collaborates with internal and external partners to deliver solutions to family office clients
- Provide case studies on flagship deals and successes during the year under consideration that are representative of the bank’s core strengths, and other relevant points of differentiation
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
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Best Private Bank – Client Experience & Concierge
This award recognises a private bank that provides a superlative experience to its clients in Asia. The award covers all client segments and markets in Asia but should underscore how the institution is going above and beyond to provide unique experiences to U/HNWIs in the region. These may include, but are not limited to, touchpoints (e.g. in-person wealth centres); client experience (e.g. luxury events and invites); and products (e.g. exclusive credit cards).
- Detail enhancements made to client interaction and experience during the year under consideration, and where possible, demonstrate results
- Detail relative emphasis placed on offline and online aspects of client experience and how the relationship between the two is evolving
- Explain the role of value-added services, products, events, exclusive opportunities, and content in augmenting the client experience, and provide examples of innovations during the year under consideration
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
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Best Private Bank – Entrepreneurs New
This award recognises a private bank that excels in serving entrepreneurs by addressing their unique needs across business ownership, wealth creation, succession, and personal investment. It is open to private banks in Asia that provide specialised services, solutions, and platforms designed to support entrepreneurs throughout their business and wealth journeys.
- Articulate the private bank’s philosophy and strategy in engaging entrepreneurial clients in Asia, including initiatives and enhancements made during the year under consideration.
- Show how the bank differentiates its services for entrepreneurs, such as access to financing, corporate advisory, pre- and post-liquidity event planning, succession planning, and wealth structuring.
- Explain how the bank evaluates the effectiveness of its entrepreneur-focused offering (e.g. client adoption, growth in assets, successful transitions).
- Discuss how entrepreneurs’ needs are influencing the bank’s broader offering and strategy, including across investments, client service, family business advisory, digitisation, and ecosystem partnerships.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Best Private Bank – Wealth Planning
This award recognises a private bank that has excelled in providing services to clients that fall under the scope of wealth planning, including but not limited to succession planning and family governance, tax and estate planning, trust administration, and insurance. Please note there are separate categories for Best Private Bank – Family Offices and Best Private Bank – Philanthropy.
- Submissions should articulate how wealth planning fits into the overall private banking business in Asia, how performance is tracked, and demonstrate improvements to the quality and delivery of solutions during the year under consideration
- Submissions should include details of how the bank is responding to succession-related dynamics and global regulatory developments
- Case studies that are representative of the bank’s core strengths and points of differentiation in wealth planning are encouraged.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
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Best Private Bank – Inclusive Wealth Management New
Best Private Bank – Philanthropy
This award recognises a private bank that has excelled in providing services to clients that fall under the scope of philanthropy, including but not limited to, the establishment of foundations and/or donor-advised funds; capabilities in advising clients on the destination and sizing of donations; monitoring outcomes of donations; and other philanthropy-related services. Case studies are strongly encouraged for this category.
- Submissions should articulate how philanthropy fits into the private bank’s overall wealth planning offering in Asia, in terms of strategy, client requirements and relevant personnel
- Submissions should include details of how the bank is working with third parties where appropriate to devise relevant philanthropic strategies for clients, how they are being executed, and how the results of such initiatives are measured
- Case studies that are representative of how the bank is helping clients to be more effective with their philanthropic engagements are encouraged
Please note there are separate categories for Best Private Bank – Wealth Planning and Best Private Bank – Family Offices.
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
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Best Private Bank – Intermediaries
This award recognises a private bank that has excelled in providing dedicated custody and investment services to Asia’s growing independent asset managers segment during the year under consideration.
- Articulate the bank’s value proposition and business strategy for providing services to IAMs/EAMs/MFOs in Asia
- Detail intermediaries offering including investments/products, servicing and support, and technology solutions, highlighting key enhancements made during the year under consideration
- Detail operational improvements and strategic investments made during the year under consideration
- Where appropriate, provide case studies that represent the bank’s core strengths and points of differentiation as a provider of services to intermediaries
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Next Generation Services
This award recognises a private bank that understands the importance of engaging and preparing the ‘next generation’ of clients and how this segment will influence its business offering. It is open to those private banks in Asia that offer dedicated next generation services in the region. Submissions should focus on the rationale of the bank’s approach to engaging next-gens in line with its core strategy, the effectiveness of its offering, and its competitive positioning.
- Articulate the private bank’s philosophy on next-gen engagement and offerings in Asia, including enhancements made during the year under consideration
- Show how the private bank differentiates and rationalises the scale and scope of its next-gen offering
- Explain how the private bank evaluates the effectiveness of its next-gen offering
- Discuss how next-gen considerations are influencing the bank’s broader offering and strategy, including across investments, client service and digitisation, and content
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best International Private Bank – AI Adoption & Digital Innovation New
This award recognises an international private bank that is leading the way in digital innovation across its regional locations, with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) considered an additional strength in the judging process. It celebrates how digital technologies – and, where applicable, AI – are reshaping the wealth management business, enhancing client service, improving efficiency, and unlocking new opportunities for growth.
Submissions should demonstrate a clear track record of exploring, developing, and deploying digitally driven solutions across the back, middle, and front offices in line with a well-defined strategy, with a focus on key achievements during the year under consideration. Where AI adoption is included, it will be viewed as a positive differentiator. For the purposes of this category, an international private bank is defined as one whose digital solutions are available to clients in multiple Asia Pacific markets, including localisation where relevant.
EXPLORATION
- Clearly articulate and rationalise the bank’s digital innovation strategy
- Detail financial and resource commitments to digital innovation that affect the Asia business and provide guidance on (expected) ROI
DEVELOPMENT
- Using recent, relevant case studies, provide a roadmap detailing key phases in the innovation process and show how resources and staff mobilise during these phases
- Discuss how (if at all) the bank uses external partnerships, and how third parties are screened and managed
- Provide evidence of digital solutions currently under development and demonstrate how these speak to the organisation’s digital strategy
DEPLOYMENT
- For the year under consideration, detail those digital solutions that have been deployed, both for beta testing and for all intended users
- Demonstrate impact and adoption of these solutions, and how this is tracked
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Best Domestic Private Bank – AI Adoption & Digital Innovation New
This award recognises a domestic private bank that is leading the way in digital innovation across its regional locations, with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) considered an additional strength in the judging process. It celebrates how digital technologies – and, where applicable, AI – are reshaping the wealth management business, enhancing client service, improving efficiency, and unlocking new opportunities for growth.
Submissions should demonstrate a clear track record of exploring, developing, and deploying digitally driven solutions across the back, middle, and front offices in line with a well-defined strategy, with a focus on key achievements during the year under consideration. Where AI adoption is included, it will be viewed as a positive differentiator.
Only banks whose regional headquarters are located in their respective domestic market may apply. Banks who apply for the category ‘Best International Private Bank – AI Adoption and Digital Innovation’ may not apply for ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – AI Adoption and Digital Innovation’.
EXPLORATION
- Clearly articulate and rationalise the bank’s digital innovation strategy
- Detail financial and resource commitments to digital innovation that affect the Asia business and provide guidance on (expected) ROI
DEVELOPMENT
- Using recent, relevant case studies, provide a roadmap detailing key phases in the innovation process and show how resources and staff mobilise during these phases
- Discuss how (if at all) the bank uses external partnerships, and how third parties are screened and managed
- Provide evidence of digital solutions currently under development and demonstrate how these speak to the organisation’s digital strategy
DEPLOYMENT
- For the year under consideration, detail those digital solutions that have been deployed, both for beta testing and for all intended users
- Demonstrate impact and adoption of these solutions, and how this is tracked
A submission sheet is not required for this category. Participants are encouraged to submit supporting documents of their choosing instead.
[cite: 1]Investments & Content Awards
Best Independent Wealth Manager Discretionary Portfolio Management
Best Independent Wealth Manager Investment Advisory
Best Private Bank Boutique
Best Private Bank Digital Innovation and Services
Best Private Bank Indonesia Domestic
Best Private Bank Investment Advisory
Best Private Bank Sustainable Investments
Best Wealth Manager Singapore
International Private Bank CIO Office
Best Private Bank Sustainable Investments & Impact
This award recognises a private bank in Asia Pacific whose sustainable investments and impact investing agenda are market-leading both in terms of the selection of specific investments and the return generated for clients.
Submissions should articulate a bank’s thesis, priorities and strategy in terms of formulating and delivering sustainable investments and impact investing offerings.
Submissions should cover relevant platform developments, investment opportunities and their success, research and content, and education initiatives.
While the Judging Panel realises that private banks interpret the term ‘sustainability’ differently, it deems that negative ESG screening alone does not constitute a sustainable investment nor impact investing offering.
A separate submission sheet is not required for this category, instead applicants may provide relevant information to support their application in a format that articulates their approach to sustainable investments.
[cite: 1]Private Bank Structured Products
Best Private Bank Credit Advisory
Best Private Bank CIO Office
Best Private Bank Fund Advisory Services
Private Bank Fund Advisory
Private Bank Alternative Advisory
Private Bank Equity Advisory
Private Bank Sustainable Investments & Impact
Best Wealth Manager Alternative Advisory
Best Private Bank Bespoke Discretionary Portfolio Management
Best Wealth Manager Investment Advisory
Best International Private Bank – CIO Office
The coveted Best International Private Bank – CIO Office title is awarded to the best private banking investment strategy and content team at an international bank in Asia Pacific.
The winning bank will be able to demonstrate that it has (i) generated outperformance via strategic and tactical asset allocation across both the core and satellite portfolio, and (ii) produced significant value-add to the bank’s clients via its investments, content and communications.
Where relevant, submissions should detail innovations at the CIO office level that demonstrate evolution in terms of how the bank organises asset allocation requirements for clients across wealth stages and geographies.
Only global banks with investment strategy and content that covers a multitude of regional markets and/or geographies may apply for this award. Banks whose investment strategy and content focuses on an individual market and/or geography should apply for ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office’. Banks that apply for the category ‘Best International Private Bank – CIO Office’ may not apply for ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office’
Please refer to the CIO Office submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office
The Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office title is awarded to the best private banking investment strategy and content team in a specific domestic market.
The winning bank will be able to demonstrate that it has (i) generated outperformance via strategic and tactical asset allocation across both the core and satellite portfolio, and (ii) produced significant value-add to the bank’s clients via its investments, content and communications.
Where relevant, submissions should detail innovations at the CIO office level that demonstrate evolution in terms of how the bank organises asset allocation requirements for clients across wealth stages and geographies.
Only banks whose regional headquarters are located in their respective domestic market may apply. Banks who apply for the category ‘Best International Private Bank – CIO Office’ may not apply for ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office’.
Please refer to the CIO Office submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Pure Play Private Bank – CIO Office New
The Best Pure Play Private Bank – CIO Office title is awarded to the best investment strategy and content team at a pure play private bank in Asia Pacific.
The winning bank will be able to demonstrate that it has (i) generated outperformance via strategic and tactical asset allocation across both the core and satellite portfolio, and (ii) delivered significant value-add to the bank’s clients through its investments, content, and communications.
Where relevant, submissions should detail innovations at the CIO office level that highlight how the bank has evolved in structuring asset allocation requirements for clients across wealth stages and geographies, with an emphasis on the distinct strengths of a pure play business model.
The Judging Panel defines a pure play as a bank whose core business is wealth management and which is not part of a wider group that provides retail, and/or corporate/investment banking services.
Private banks that do not meet this definition should apply for the ‘Best International Private Bank – CIO Office’ or ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office’ categories as appropriate.
Please refer to the CIO Office submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best Boutique Private Bank – CIO Office New
The Best Boutique Private Bank – CIO Office title is awarded to the best boutique private banking investment strategy and content team in Asia Pacific.
For this category, the Awards for Distinction Judging Panel will only accept submissions from those private banks with Asia-derived AUM of US$50 billion or under during the period under consideration.
The winning bank will be able to demonstrate that it has (i) generated outperformance via strategic and tactical asset allocation across both the core and satellite portfolio, and (ii) produced significant value-add to the bank’s clients via its investments, content, and communications.
Where relevant, submissions should detail innovations at the CIO office level that demonstrate how the bank has evolved in organising asset allocation requirements for clients across wealth stages, markets, and geographies, particularly in the context of a boutique operating model.
Only boutique private banks with investment strategy and content covering multiple client segments and/or markets in Asia may apply for this award. Banks that exceed the AUM threshold should instead apply for the ‘Best International Private Bank – CIO Office’ or ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – CIO Office’ categories as appropriate.
Please refer to the CIO Office submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best International Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management
Winners
Best Domestic Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management
This award recognises a private bank in a specific Asia Pacific market whose discretionary portfolio management business has outperformed its peers in terms of the investment needs of clients and achieved strong business momentum in the region for the year under consideration.
Given DPM is a strategic priority for many banks in the region, beyond the information and data required by the accompanying submission sheet, submissions should discuss strategic goals and their delivery, including operational and platform enhancements, and differentiation and innovation.
Only banks whose regional headquarters are located in their respective domestic market may apply. Banks that apply for the category ‘Best Domestic Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management’, may not apply for ‘Best International Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management’ or ‘Best Pure Play Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management’.
Please refer to the DPM submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet and should follow the Content/Investments Criteria.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Pure Play Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management
This award recognises a pure play private bank in one or more Asia Pacific markets whose discretionary portfolio management business has outperformed its peers in terms of the investment needs of clients and achieved strong business momentum in the region for the year under consideration.
Given DPM is a strategic priority for many pure play banks in the region, beyond the information and data required by the accompanying submission sheet, submissions should discuss strategic goals and their delivery, including operational and platform enhancements, and differentiation and innovation.
The Judging Panel defines a pure play as a bank whose core business is wealth management and which is not part of a wider group that provides retail, and/or corporate/investment banking services.
Banks that apply for the category ‘Best Pure Play Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management’, may not apply for ‘Best International Private Bank – Discretionary Portfolio Management’.
Please refer to the DPM submission sheet for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet and should follow the Content/Investments Criteria.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Fund Advisory
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – FX Advisory
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Alternative Advisory
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Structured Products
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winner
Best Private Bank – Credit & Financing
The above awards cover private banks’ capabilities in advising clients on trading of major asset classes, as well as those for providing clients with credit and financing.
Each submission must be accompanied by a completed submission sheet applicable to the asset class. Please refer to the Fund Advisory, Capital Markets or Credit and Financing submission sheets for full submission guidance depending on the asset class.
Note: Submissions for ‘Best Private Bank – Equity Advisory’, ‘Best Private Bank – Fixed Income Advisory’, and ‘Best Private Bank – FX Advisory’ should primarily focus on cash trading of these assets. For trading in derivatives and other structures related to these asset classes, there is the ‘Best Private Bank – Structured Products’ category.
[cite: 1]Winners
Best Private Bank – Digital Asset Advisory New
This award recognises a private bank in Asia Pacific that has demonstrated market-leading expertise in advising clients on digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, tokenised assets, and blockchain-based solutions. Submissions should articulate the bank’s overall strategy, priorities, and approach to integrating digital assets into client portfolios, including advisory, risk management, and execution capabilities.
They should also highlight platform developments, technology partnerships, investment opportunities offered to clients, and educational initiatives that support client understanding of digital assets.
While the Judging Panel acknowledges that private banks may adopt different approaches to digital assets, submissions should demonstrate tangible impact and value for clients, rather than merely offering access to cryptocurrencies.
Please refer to the Fund Advisory submission sheets for full submission guidance. Submissions must include a completed submission sheet.
[cite: 1]Best Private Bank – Sustainable Investments & Impact
Winners
Best Private Bank – Investment Advisory (Overall)
The Asian Private Banker Awards for Distinction Judging Panel will also award a prize for Best Private Bank – Investment Advisory to a private bank that has demonstrated excellence and breadth and depth across the various asset classes that constitute its advisory offering, based on the individual submissions to the seven categories listed above.
This accolade is made at the discretion of the Judging Panel and does not require a separate submission from entrants.
Confidentiality: Asian Private Banker understands and respects participants’ confidentiality requirements and takes information security very seriously. Access to submission materials, like this submission sheet, is limited to the Judging Panel and strict measures are in place to ensure the security of physical and electronic materials. The Judging Panel is prepared to sign nondisclosure agreements upon request.
Where the submission sheet asks for information that is not relevant to the business in question, please leave blank.
[cite: 1]Winners
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