This is a sponsored advertorial from Swiss-Asia Financial Services.

After 20 years in private banking, Dennis Cheng chose Swiss-Asia Financial Services for truly independent, client-first wealth management.

Background and motivation

Could you share a bit about your career path prior to joining Swiss-Asia?

I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2000 with a degree in Banking and Finance. Over 20 years, I held roles across OUB/UOB, Citi International Personal Banking (Indonesia), UOB Private Bank, and HL Bank. In 2022, I transitioned to independence and joined Swiss-Asia Financial Services.

What motivated you to leave traditional private banking?

After more than two decades in the banking system, I realised that the layers of bureaucracy and constant internal pressures often distracted me from what really mattered — my clients.

I wanted the freedom to act purely in my clients’ best interests, to represent them rather than the bank. The independent model made perfect sense.

Why did you choose Swiss-Asia’s platform specifically?

Among the platforms I considered, Swiss-Asia stood out as truly best-in-class. It combines a solid reputation, robust infrastructure, and strong partnerships with major financial institutions.

What was the “tipping point” in your decision to join?

Over time, I grew increasingly uncomfortable with the traditional tripartite setup between banks, clients, and relationship managers. I wanted to build direct, transparent, and lasting relationships where clients’ interests always come first. Swiss-Asia gave me the perfect structure to achieve that.

Experience since joining

What were your expectations, and how have they been met?

Everything I was promised before joining has been delivered, and more. I’m proud to work with a leadership team that values integrity. 

What’s been the biggest change in your day-to-day workflow?

Honestly, the biggest change is freedom — and time.

As an independent, I set my own schedule and focus on what matters most: my clients. Instead of endless paperwork and internal meetings, my time is now spent managing portfolios and engaging meaningfully with clients. It’s incredibly fulfilling.

How has this platform helped you focus more on clients and investments?

Swiss-Asia’s operational and compliance teams handle the heavy lifting. That means 90% of my time goes into managing portfolios. My incentives are now fully aligned with client success.

Which aspects of the Swiss-Asia platform do you value most?

The operations are seamless, and compliance is supportive yet practical.

The entire team is pro-business. They understand what independent managers need to thrive. It’s a very collaborative environment.

Comparative advantages

Which frustrations from banking life have disappeared?

No more conflicts of interest, product pushing, internal KPIs, or office politics. I now work in a clean, client-first environment that rewards performance and transparency.

How does the conflict-free nature of our platform help you with clients?

It’s liberating to be able to tell clients, “I work for you, not the bank.” That honestly builds instant credibility. It’s a genuine win-win for both sides.

What do you think makes Swiss-Asia unique among platforms?

It has the longest track record in Singapore’s EAM space, with deep ties to top global banks.

Clients and partners know the name. It represents credibility and continuity in an industry where many smaller EAMs come and go.

Client and growth impact

Has joining Swiss-Asia impacted your ability to attract or retain clients?

Absolutely. Simply being under the Swiss-Asia umbrella gives instant credibility. Over the past three years, I’ve seen consistent growth and long-term client loyalty – a testament to both the platform and the trust it inspires.

Are you now able to offer more flexible investment solutions?

Yes, without a doubt. I can now access a broad network of partner banks and product providers.

How do clients react when you explain your independence?

For many Asian clients, the EAM concept is still relatively new. Education is key, but once they understand that I’m fully aligned with their interests, the relationship deepens quickly.

Personal reflection and advice

What advice would you give private bankers considering a move to independence?

Don’t wait too long. I only wish I had made the move earlier. It’s the most empowering career decision I’ve made.

What is your personal philosophy in wealth management, and how does Swiss-Asia support it?

For me, wealth management is about full accountability to my clients, not to product teams or bank management. Swiss-Asia provides the infrastructure, credibility, and autonomy that allow me to serve clients independently, transparently, and in the way I’ve always believed private banking should be delivered.

Learn more here.

This is a sponsored advertorial from Swiss-Asia Financial Services.