Bank of Singapore has relocated a veteran banker from Singapore to Dubai to drive the bank’s business in the Middle East. Effective 1 July 2026, Lim Leong Guan (林良源) will assume the role of head of private banking for the Middle East, South Asia & international. Based in Dubai, he will also be chief executive of the Dubai International Financial […]

The post Bank of Singapore appoints private banking head for Middle East, South Asia & int’l appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A senior executive at Bank of Singapore is set to leave the lender, Asian Private Banker has learnt. Singapore-based Dennis Hong, a market group head at the bank, is departing, sources told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed Hong’s resignation. APB has been unable to determine Hong’s next career move. Hong has more than 15 years of experience in the financial industry. He […]

The post Bank of Singapore loses Asia Pacific market group head appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore will soon enable its high net worth and ultra high net worth clients to buy, sell and store physical gold in a Singapore-based vault, expanding its precious metals offering as demand for bullion surges. The new service, available from 10 June 2026 under parent group OCBC, will also be extended to institutional clients, according to a statement […]

The post Bank of Singapore adds bullion trading and storage for clients appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore’s Yazid Mahadi is ramping up the development of the bank’s hedge fund shelf under his expanded mandate for the business unit, he told Asian Private Banker. The bank’s increased focus on hedge funds comes amid potential tailwinds. The asset class struggled in recent years to add value in a market dominated by an easy beta rally, but […]

The post Bank of Singapore expands hedge fund shelf as selector sees turning point appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A veteran senior executive at Bank of Singapore is set to depart the lender after a tenure spanning nearly 19 years, Asian Private Banker can reveal. Rodney Sin, who is currently vice chair for ultra high net worth client coverage, is retiring from the bank, sources familiar with the matter told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed Sin’s retirement. “We would […]

The post Bank of Singapore vice chair for UHNW coverage Rodney Sin retires appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Three decades ago, Paul Chua, now the head of family office and wealth advisory at Bank of Singapore, avoided the word “death” when consulting with clients. At the time, the subject was considered a conversational third rail in the world of private wealth. Today, that cultural barrier has largely dissolved. A shift is underway in the industry as high net […]

The post Bank of Singapore wealth planning hits record as insurance take-up doubles appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

After setting new wealth fees and AUM highs in 2025, Singapore’s Big Three saw sustained momentum in 1Q26. DBS saw yet another record in wealth income and fees, with double-digit AUM growth, while Bank of Singapore saw wealth fees grow 34% YoY amid the acquisition of HSBC’s wealth business in Indonesia. UOB saw its wealth AUM increase 5% YoY on […]

The post Singapore’s Big Three capture sustained fee momentum in 1Q26 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The post-bonus exodus intensified in April, following the wave of exits in March. Bank of Singapore was among the hardest hit, with numerous market and team leaders parting ways with the bank. The top moves in the private banking industry in April included the resignation of Reto Marx, co-head of the Singapore branch and chief risk officer for Asia at […]

The post Movers & Shakers: Who’s in, who’s out, and what’s next for Bank of Singapore? appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The US-Israeli joint military offensive on 28 February 2026 has significantly cooled the war for talent in the Middle East, as private banking candidates hesitate to make long-term commitments to the region. While banks remain committed to aggressive expansion targets, the record-breaking momentum of the first two months of 2026 is now meeting a new layer of candidate hesitation. January […]

The post Geopolitics stalls Middle East talent war as candidates think twice appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The head of private banking for the Middle East, global South Asia (GSA) & international at Bank of Singapore is leaving the Singaporean lender, Asian Private Banker can reveal. Ranjit Khanna, who also held the role of chief executive of the bank’s Dubai International Financial Centre Branch, has resigned, sources told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed Khanna’s departure and said, “Ranjit has […]

The post Bank of Singapore’s private banking head for Middle East and GSA resigns appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore is shifting back into “aggressive” recruitment mode for 2026, betting that its investments in its talent and platform will bring a “second year of harvesting” for its Greater China business. The Singapore-based lender’s Greater China AUM grew by more than 20% year-on-year, with UHNW assets increasing by 50% in 2025. Revenue growth was over 25%, driven by […]

The post Bank of Singapore to resume “aggressive” hiring as Greater China UHNW assets jump 50% appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has made a series of senior leadership appointments for its family office and wealth advisory business amid Asia’s ongoing intergenerational wealth transfer. Effective 4 May 2026, Elvin Ho will join the Singaporean lender as head of family office and structuring solutions, the bank said in a statement on Tuesday. Ho will lead the bank’s competency and solutions […]

The post Bank of Singapore appoints senior leadership for FO and wealth advisory appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A team head covering the Greater China market at Bank of Singapore is leaving the bank, Asian Private Banker has learnt. Singapore-based Siang Ing Tan has recently resigned, a source familiar with the matter told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed the news. APB has been unable to determine Tan’s next career move at this time. Tan has close to two decades of […]

The post Another team head resigns from Bank of Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has lost a team head covering the Indonesian market, Asian Private Banker has learnt. Shirley Tee has recently resigned from the Singaporean lender, sources told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed Tee’s resignation. APB has been unable to determine Tee’s next career move or her replacement at the bank. Tee has over two decades of experience in the […]

The post Indonesia team head resigns from Bank of Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asia’s private banking AUM has crossed the US$4 trillion mark, according to Asian Private Banker‘s 2025 League Tables. With J.P. Morgan Private Bank entering the top three for the first time and Nomura International Wealth Management (IWM) making its debut in the tables, the 2025 rankings saw widespread movements. J.P. Morgan Private Bank led this growth with a 41% increase […]

The post Asia 2025 AUM League Tables: Assets cross US$4tn, JPM enters top three, Nomura debuts appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

After Asian Private Banker’s earlier scoop on the veteran banker’s move from Julius Baer to Bank of Singapore, the bank has officially confirmed her new role. Vi Sun Yang will serve as its head of private banking, ASEAN, reporting to CEO Jason Moo, the bank announced on Thursday. In this role, Yang will oversee the strategic growth and development of […]

The post Bank of Singapore confirms Vi Sun Yang as ASEAN private banking head appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A seasoned wealth management veteran in Singapore is set to move from Julius Baer to Bank of Singapore, Asian Private Banker can reveal. According to sources familiar with the matter, Vi Sun Yang, the Swiss private bank’s market head for Southeast Asia, will leave the firm to join Bank of Singapore. She is understood to be taking on a Singapore […]

The post SEA market head leaves Julius Baer for Bank of Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The head of funds at Bank of Singapore has taken on expanded responsibilities, Asian Private Banker has learnt, as the firm reshapes its fund selection leadership. Yazid Mahadi will continue to lead fund and manager selection across mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, and will now also oversee the bank’s hedge fund business, according to sources familiar with the matter. His […]

The post Bank of Singapore expands scope for head of funds appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore’s head of private markets and alternatives will leave the bank, Asian Private Banker has learnt. Chee Jiun Wen, who held the role for nearly six years, is departing the Singapore-based lender, sources familiar with the matter told APB. Bank of Singapore confirmed Chee’s resignation. Chee is an investment veteran with more than two decades of industry experience. […]

The post Bank of Singapore loses head of private markets and alternatives appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

As the escalating conflict in the Middle East continues to rock global markets, wealth clients in Asia are seeking greater downside protection alongside performance, and allocations that capture growth beyond the US dollar, according to panellists at the Asian Private Banker DPM Leaders Conversation 2026 in Hong Kong. The panel discussion, DPM mandate trends 2026: Navigating black swan events & […]

The post DPMLC 2026: Black swan risks trigger client flight to non-USD mandates appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asian Private Banker is proud to unveil our 2026 COO Focus, an annual audit of how the region’s largest wealth managers are recalibrating operations following a year of volatile market shifts and rapid technological adoption. Senior executives and thought leaders contributed to this year’s edition, including: Wiwi Gutmannsbauer, UBS Global Wealth Management; Benoit Douchin, HSBC Global Private Banking; Patrick Dreyfuss, […]

The post COO Focus: How Asia’s top private banks are rewiring the middle office appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore’s investment advisory unit reported a 40% revenue surge last year, driven by a pivot into AI-themed structured products, gold momentum and a timely bet on Additional Tier 1 (AT1) bonds. “The first month of this year has been fantastic, and we are also investing a lot into our processes and products. We can see those investments are […]

The post Bank of Singapore investment advisory revenue jumps 40% appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

In the early hours of the morning in Hong Kong, a wealth adviser found himself handling an unusual request from several clients — not about portfolio allocations or investment opportunities, but about arranging private jets out of the Middle East. The episode reflects a broader shift quietly unfolding as rising geopolitical tensions prompt wealthy Asians to reassess where their assets […]

The post Send the private jet — Asia’s rich weigh Dubai exit as regional risks mount appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

When Grizelda Lee looks back on her almost 20-year career so far and pinpoints one pivotal moment that boosted her growth and development as a female professional in the private banking space, she chalks it up to a manager simply believing in her abilities and giving her a chance to prove herself. “A senior male manager offered me opportunities that […]

The post IWD 2026 — “If you can see her, you can be her”: Bank of Singapore’s Grizelda Lee on the power of self-belief appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has revamped its compensation framework for relationship managers (RMs), aiming to give bankers greater certainty and transparency over bonuses as competition for talent in Asia’s private banking industry intensifies, Asian Private Banker can reveal. The Singapore-based bank has introduced a new compensation structure tied directly to the profit contribution each RM generates, sources familiar with the matter told […]

The post Bank of Singapore introduces new RM pay model appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Thailand has emerged as a new growth engine for Asia’s external asset managers (EAMs) as they aim to break into new markets amid rising industry competition. In one example, Singaporean EAM WRISE recently entered into a collaboration with Thai-based advisory firm IFCG Public Company, the firms said in a statement on Tuesday. Under the tie-up, WRISE will provide its platform […]

The post Thailand emerges as a hotspot as Asia’s EAMs eye new markets appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The recent events in the Middle East may constitute the largest escalation in conflict in decades. But despite this, private banks, accustomed to volatile markets, are remaining calm, believing that disruption is likely to be only temporary, with trends such as AI capital expenditure more consequential in the long run. Attacks on Iran on 28 February 2026, led by the […]

The post Middle East shock fails to rattle private banks as CIOs hold firm appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The post Private Banking Hiring Report 2025 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has strengthened its Greater China team by hiring a former senior executive at HSBC Private Bank. Based in Singapore, Eng Chien Chan joined the bank as market group head for Greater China on 17 March 2026. He will report to Rickie Chan, head of private banking, Greater China, and chief executive of the bank’s Hong Kong branch. […]

The post Bank of Singapore hires from HSBC Private Bank for Greater China role appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Singapore’s banking giants have transformed a volatile 2025 into a strong year for fee generation, with DBS and OCBC’s Bank of Singapore hitting all-time highs in wealth income. These results come as other wealth management players in the region also reported strong earnings. Standard Chartered’s wealth business delivered record wealth solutions income in 2025, while UBS Global Wealth Management saw […]

The post Singapore’s big three break wealth fees and AUM records appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has made a senior appointment to strengthen its capabilities in serving ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients. Bernard Heng will take up the role of head of customised solutions, effective 2 March 2026, according to a statement on Friday. In this role, Heng will lead the development, management and execution of complex products and bespoke solutions, with a focus on […]

The post Bank of Singapore strengthens UHNW focus with senior hire appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

As private wealth clients increase their alternative investment allocations, private banks are racing to secure exclusivity deals with top-tier houses. However, with these funds eventually becoming widely accessible, how can banks maintain differentiation once the initial “honeymoon” period ends? This is part of a broader strategy of private banks looking to close a massive gap in alternative asset allocations, with […]

The post Exclusive — really? Goldman Sachs, Bank of Singapore on alts tie-ups and differentiation appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Galloping into the Year of the Fire Horse, the race continues among private banks and asset managers to see who can distribute the most spectacular red packets to clients. More than just traditional gifts for family and friends, these laisee, or hongbao, have morphed into cult collectables, often trading on secondary markets for prices that rival the currency inside. Horses […]

The post Vote now: Who has the best red packets in Year of the Horse? appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has appointed a financial markets veteran to join its senior management team as part of its growth plan. Collins Chin has been appointed as global chief financial officer with immediate effect. Chin will be a member of the bank’s global management committee, reporting to Bank of Singapore’s chief executive officer, Jason Moo, according to a statement on […]

The post Bank of Singapore appoints OCBC veteran as global CFO appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore said its discretionary portfolio management (DPM) assets grew nearly 20% year-on-year in 2025, driven by a surge in mandates focused on Singapore’s domestic markets. These mandates typically allocate between 40% and 95% to Singapore equities, with the remainder invested in Singapore dollar-denominated bonds and cash, the bank announced on Wednesday. Investor appetite for Singapore-focused mandates has been […]

The post BoS sees 20% jump in DPM assets driven by Singapore-focused mandates appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Standard Chartered Private Bank has made a key senior appointment in Singapore to lead the development of a new offshore Greater China team, Asian Private Banker has learnt. Hu Hong has joined the emerging markets-focused lender as market group head, sources told APB. Hu has over 30 years of experience in finance, with a focus on the Greater China and […]

The post StanChart PB hires BoS banker to grow Greater China business in Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asian Private Banker is delighted to present Final Word 2025, our year-in-review feature featuring regional heads from wealth management players across APAC. Click here to read Final Word 2025 In this exclusive feature, top executives reflected on what kept them up at night in 2025, covering everything from digital transformation to regulations, and business strategy to investment performance. Below are some […]

The post Final Word: Private banking leaders reflect on strong a 2025, reveal strategies for 2026 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Private banking CIOs from Bank of Singapore, Lombard Odier and HSBC reveal their strategies going into 2026. Among the more popular calls are Asia, gold, and the broader AI ecosystem, betting on a Fed-driven weakening of the US dollar to fuel a rotation into faster-growing emerging markets.  While CIOs generally expect the US to avoid a recession, as a base […]

The post Asia, gold and AI lead CIO bets for 2026 amid weakening dollar appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Even as the global economy was rocked by geopolitical flux and interest rate uncertainty throughout the year, Bank of Singapore’s fund selection chief defined 2025 as “a good year” in terms of client flows and performance across the board.  Significant growth has tracked across all asset classes, especially in the fixed income space, head of funds selection, Yazid Mahadi, told […]

The post Bank of Singapore eyes duration-hedged fixed income in streamlined fund shelf appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Private banks and wealth managers in Southeast Asia are recalibrating their approach to alternative assets, sharpening risk models and stress-testing portfolios, as exit windows narrow and credit risk edges higher, experts at Bank of Singapore, BNP Paribas Wealth Management, Indosuez Wealth Management and HSBC Private Bank told Asian Private Banker. Across the region, the combination of sluggish IPO markets, muted M&A […]

The post Liquidity pressure in private markets? Private banks say yes appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

For the world’s elite private banks, office space is more than just a place to house staff. It’s where clients meet, deals are made, and generational relationships formed. Often housing bespoke artwork and well-being centres, while offering stunning views and state-of-the-art facilities, offices are a statement for the bank’s value proposition. And in private banking – being in the business […]

The post Revealed: This is the best private banking office in Hong Kong appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Indosuez Wealth Management (Indosuez WM) made three new appointments from Bank of Singapore to strengthen its China coverage in Singapore, according to a statement on Monday. Eddie Chng has been appointed as a managing director and market leader, China. Chng previously held roles at Bank of Singapore, LGT Private Banking, Morgan Stanley and DBS Bank. He will report to Ong […]

The post Indosuez WM expands China coverage with trio from Bank of Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has hired the former co-head of the UHNW Solutions Group at UBS Wealth Management to lead its global investment advisory teams. Based in Singapore, Claude Andre Harbonn will assume the role of head of investment advisory on 5 January 2026. Besides leading the global investment advisory teams, he will set the strategic direction of the investment advisory […]

The post Bank of Singapore taps UBS for investment advisory head appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asian Private Banker is excited to launch the Power List Singapore to celebrate the city’s most influential private bankers shaping one of Asia’s fastest-growing wealth hubs. Not just managing wealth, these leaders are redefining their craft by combining expertise with empathy, innovation, and a commitment to lasting relationships. Click here to see the full Power List Singapore. The Power List […]

The post APB Power List: Meet the most influential private bankers in Singapore appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) represents something larger than compliance efficiency — it’s about redefining what’s possible in banking,” Kelvin Chiang, head of platform and analytics, financial crime compliance, Bank of Singapore, told Asian Private Banker. His comments come as Singapore’s wealth management industry continues to rebuild trust after a S$3 billion money-laundering scandal two years ago. As the Monetary Authority of […]

The post AI steps in as private banking’s new compliance watchdog appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The dominance of Singapore’s big three banks in the region, DBS, OCBC, and UOB, continued in the third quarter of this year, with the trio hitting new highs in assets under management (AUM) and recording double-digit fee growth across the board. This is according to the banks’ latest earnings reports, with DBS seeing record wealth income and AUM. Bank of […]

The post Fee frenzy: Singapore’s big three hit record wealth highs appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

There is reason to believe that allocations to alternative investments among the private wealth segment in Asia will continue to increase in the coming year. This, according to panellists, may be one way of smoothing out returns and providing investors with exposure to assets and industries less correlated with traditional equities and deemed more protected from downside risks resulting from […]

The post APB Summit 2025: Morgan Stanley, Bank of Singapore spotlight Asia’s alts demand appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore is seeking to strengthen its Greater China coverage by hiring two industry veterans in Hong Kong, according to a statement on Tuesday. The Singaporean lender also said it has already surpassed its Hong Kong AUM target for 2024-2026. Che Yan and Hank Chen have both joined Bank of Singapore’s Hong Kong branch as senior relationship managers under […]

The post Bank of Singapore hires two senior Greater China RMs in Hong Kong appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A veteran banker who worked for Bank of Singapore for more than eight years in his earlier career has recently rejoined the bank from UBS. Effective 21 October 2025, Bikram Sen is now Bank of Singapore’s market head for Global South Asia and International, the bank announced in a statement on Thursday. In his new role, Sen will be based […]

The post Bank of Singapore appoints Global South Asia market head from UBS appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Southeast Asia’s private banks have been experiencing strong inflows and sustained growth momentum, according to private banking leaders at the APB Summit 2025 in Singapore today. The panel discussion, Business highlights: Progress in Singapore’s private wealth business revealed private banking trends in the region, differentiation strategies, and future industry challenges identified by private banking CEOs. International corridors supporting flows At […]

The post APB Summit 2025: Flows, edge, concerns – UBS, Julius Baer, BOS, DBS share insights appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Hong Leong Bank has hired a former senior Bank of Singapore executive to lead its regional private banking business in its latest efforts to strengthen its presence in Asia’s wealth markets. Effective 10 October 2025, Kenneth Tan has joined the Malaysian bank as its new regional head of private banking. Based in Singapore, he will support Jeffrey Yap, the bank’s […]

The post Ex-BoS Malaysia market head joins Hong Leong Bank appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has launched an agentic artificial intelligence (AI) tool to overhaul a key part of its client due diligence process. The technology automates the know your customer (KYC) due diligence process required to confirm the legitimacy of clients’ assets and financial history, the firm said in a release on Friday. Dubbed the Source of Wealth Assistant (SOWA), the […]

The post Bank of Singapore deploys agentic AI for faster source of wealth checks appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has onboarded a global macro hedge fund managed by PIMCO in a bid to shore up investor portfolio resilience amid anticipated market volatility in the near future. Asian Private Banker understands the fund was added to the OCBC wealth management arm’s platform in July, marking the first partnership between the two firms after discussions that began last […]

The post Bank of Singapore brings PIMCO’s flagship hedge fund for wealth clients appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

EFG has appointed a vice chairman for Southeast Asia, following their retirement from Bank of Singapore last year. Effective immediately, Robin Heng is now the vice chairman of Southeast Asia at EFG, the pure play private bank announced in a statement on Tuesday. Based in Singapore, Heng will report directly to Albert Chiu, executive chairman, APAC at EFG and functionally […]

The post Ex-Bank of Singapore private banking co-head resurfaces at EFG appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore rebooted its strategic asset allocation (SAA) framework in July of this year to help clients build more resilient and diversified portfolios to withstand market volatility. But does the new framework offer clients more value than competitor offerings? If so, how? And why now? Asian Private Banker sat down with the bank’s chief portfolio strategist, Dr. Owi Ruivivar, […]

The post What’s behind Bank of Singapore’s revamped SAA framework? Owi Ruivivar explains more appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A high-profile China market veteran who has worked for the Singaporean bank for over two decades has resigned from the bank, Asian Private Banker understands. Hu Hong, one of the market group heads who covers Greater China, has resigned from the bank, sources told APB. Hu has spent over 20 years working for the OCBC group, including over 15 years […]

The post Bank of Singapore rejigs Greater China team as veteran banker resigns appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The United States may no longer be as exceptional as it once was – at least from a fund selection perspective. With the continued weakening of the US dollar and the perceived uncertainty that mega-cap companies are, in fact, overvalued, such factors, among many others, are casting an unnerving shadow over US-focused product offerings. This consternation is shaping investment strategies […]

The post FSN SG 2025: BoS, BNP Paribas, and UOB’s fund picks for US-led uncertainty appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

For relationship managers (RMs), client conversations have often started with a product to meet an immediate need. Bank of Singapore’s Whole Portfolio Advisory (WPA) takes a different path, focusing instead on a broader, more holistic view. So how is the bank preparing its RMs, the core front-facing advisers, for this shift? Speaking to Asian Private Banker, Vivienne Chia, global head […]

The post Products or portfolio thinking? How Bank of Singapore is training RMs appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has rolled out a new solution for ultra high net worth individuals (UHNWIs), designed to give them access to benefits traditionally associated with a single-family office (SFO) without the burden of setting up and running one. The Family Office Catalyst will see the bank appointed as the fund manager of an investment vehicle that can qualify for tax exemptions […]

The post “A lot of interest”: Bank of Singapore offers family office alternative for UHNWIs appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Singapore’s big three banks, DBS, OCBC, and UOB, recorded growth in their wealth management AUM alongside increased wealth management income for 1H25. According to the latest earnings reports, DBS’s wealth management AUM rose 12% year-on-year (YoY), while wealth income grew 8% YoY. OCBC recorded an 11% YoY increase in wealth management AUM, with wealth income up 4% YoY. UOB saw […]

The post Singapore banks post wealth AUM growth with income gains appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

As the asset management industry continues to consolidate around larger names, the role of private bank fund selectors to identify the right partners and products is becoming ever more critical, industry experts shared with Asian Private Banker. Major deals such as Franklin Templeton’s acquisition of Legg Mason, BlackRock’s purchase of Global Infrastructure Partners, BNP Paribas’s takeover of AXA Investment managers, […]

The post Does size matter? Bank of Singapore, Julius Baer on asset manager consolidation appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Private banks across Asia Pacific have resumed hiring in full force. However, unlike the boom-and-bust cycles of previous expansions when many banks set out aggressive hiring targets, this time around, the keywords are “selectively” and “discreet”. One common sentiment headhunters in the region shared with Asian Private Banker is the distinct lack of team moves. Team moves typically involve a […]

The post Full force or fine-tuned? Asia’s private banks rethink hiring appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

When Jean Chia took the reins as Bank of Singapore’s fourth CIO, she didn’t just inherit a strong investment platform; she saw an opportunity to transform it into the engine room of the bank’s future growth. Having spent more than a decade at Bank of Singapore, Chia, the global CIO, began her journey by heading the equities and derivatives business. […]

The post The Jean Chia makeover at Bank of Singapore’s CIO office appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asia’s wealthy investors are showing a rising appetite for hedge funds and private credit amid ongoing market uncertainties, as private banks in the region continue to diversify their offerings and enhance client engagement to drive greater penetration into alternative investments, industry leaders shared at Asian Private Banker’s inaugural Alternatives Selection Nexus in Singapore. “I think across all our private banking […]

The post Hedge funds rise to the fore at BoS, Julius Baer, and StanChart appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A Southeast Asia coverage market head at Bank of Singapore is set to depart the Singaporean private bank, Asian Private Banker understands. Kenneth Tan, market head for Malaysia and senior business advisor to Bank of Singapore Wealth Management Malaysia, has recently resigned from the bank, multiple sources confirmed to APB. Tan has spent over seven years with the bank. Prior […]

The post Bank of Singapore Malaysia market head resigns appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has launched a new risk-based framework for strategic asset allocation (SAA) as part of its latest efforts to navigate clients through market uncertainties and enhance its investment portfolio advisory capabilities. Developed by the bank’s chief investment office after a year-long study and the stress testing of 120,000 portfolios, the framework adopts the “robust optimisation” technique, according to […]

The post Bank of Singapore reboots asset allocation framework appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The external asset management (EAM) space in Asia may still be in its early stages, but its rapid growth is creating “tremendous opportunity” for private banks that know how to serve this emerging client segment, according to senior executives from leading private banks. While EAMs in Asia are less mature than their European counterparts, panellists at the Family Office Association […]

The post Bank of Singapore, StanChart, and UBP tap North Asia EAM growth appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has strengthened its CIO global advisory council with four heavyweight additions, reinforcing its push to deliver sharper investment insights and thought leadership to its clients. The latest members include Joseph Zidle, chief investment strategist at Blackstone Private Wealth, and Torsten Slok, chief economist and partner at Apollo Global Management. Joining them are Guo Kai, executive president and […]

The post Bank of Singapore adds Apollo and Blackstone heavyweights to CIO council appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore clients now have access to Capital Group’s flagship income strategy, marking the first time the bank is offering a fund from the US asset management giant. Under a new distribution agreement announced on Monday, Bank of Singapore will offer Capital Group’s multi-sector income (MSI) fund, a strategy designed to offer attractive and reliable income by investing in […]

The post Bank of Singapore seals first deal with US$2.8tn fund manager appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has reported strong growth momentum in Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2025, contrasting with the moderate Asia AUM growth seen throughout 2024. Data from APB Insights for 2024 show that Bank of Singapore’s Asia AUM increased by just 6.9% that year, up from US$116 billion to US$124 billion. Despite the increase and a much-publicised hiring […]

The post Bank of Singapore’s Hong Kong UHNW AUM surges 54% YoY as growth targets remain “on track” appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

A respite in trade tensions between China and the US has sent positive signals to global financial markets. However, leading private banks and asset managers in Asia warn that China may now slow the rate of policy stimulus as trade talks improve. The US will reduce tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% while China will cut its post-2 […]

The post “A positive surprise”: Private banks eye US-China trade breakthrough with caution appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Specialised alternative strategies are gaining popularity with private wealth clients in Asia, as private equity firms seek to differentiate their offerings amid increasingly fierce competition, leading private bank alts heads told Asian Private Banker. “The growth of specialist alternative investment players is a significant trend in Asia’s private wealth market,” said Jason Ng, co-head of the alternatives and strategic solutions […]

The post Specialised alts strategies gaining popularity in Asia – PB alts heads appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asia’s private wealth investors are reassessing their exposure to the US market as President Donald Trump marks his first 100 days in the White House, which has been largely characterised by his trade policies disrupting financial markets. “With almost daily developments, investors are justifiably spooked by how the proposed tariffs would weigh on economic growth, corporate earnings, and the USD, […]

The post Trump’s first 100 days: Asian U/HNWIs reassess US exposure amid uncertainty appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

 Bank of Singapore’s role as a wealth advisor extends beyond numbers and strategies. It centres around empowering clients to achieve their aspirations, whether that involves growing their wealth or building a lasting legacy. The bank’s commitment is to be a trusted advisor for all its clients’ needs, providing the best advice, along with innovative and unique solutions. As Asia’s […]

The post What resonates most with Jason Moo, Bank of Singapore’s CEO, in his role? appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asia’s private banking AUM has surpassed US$3 trillion, according to Asian Private Banker‘s Asia 2024 League Tables, reflecting both the region’s growing wealth and strategic shifts among top players. In one of the most profound moves, Standard Chartered cracked the top five for the first time, showing how fast fortunes can change. The UK-based bank posted an AUM jump of […]

The post Asia 2024 AUM League Tables: AUM hits US$3tn, StanChart enters top five appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Trade war averted? Global markets have breathed a major sigh of relief after US President Donald Trump agreed to avert his planned plethora of tariffs on global trading partners for 90 days. Although China was the unlucky exception to that decision, with the president doubling down on sanctions on the world’s second-largest economy, upping tariffs on imports from the country […]

The post Trade war latest: PBs react after Trump’s tariff ‘capitulation’ appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

While stock markets around the world have continued to sell-off following US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs against a multitude of trade partners, Bank of Singapore’s global CIO Jean Chia believes that there may be better days ahead. Asian stock markets extended losses on Wednesday after Trump imposed a staggering 104% tariff on Chinese imports, inching the world’s two largest […]

The post Bank of Singapore CIO: How to bulletproof your portfolio during trade war appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asian Private Banker is proud to unveil the 2025 edition of our annual COO Focus, gathering the latest views of regional private bank operational chiefs on everything from compliance costs, to artificial intelligence and the latest work-from-home trends. The flagship project gathers analysis and opinions from all of the COOs as Asia’s leading wealth players on how they are strategising […]

The post Revealed: What’s keeping private bank COOs up at night appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The client onboarding process is crucial for private banks but often complex and time-sensitive, requiring them to balance regulations, risk assessments, and operations while ensuring a smooth client experience. With growing digital adoption, financial institutions are integrating automation and hybrid models to enhance efficiency and reduce manual intervention. But how effective are these strategies in practice and what does it […]

The post BoS and UOB PB COOs modernising client onboarding for the future appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

After a blistering rally driven by domestic breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) and the rehabilitation of Jack Ma, private banks are becoming increasingly bullish on Chinese stocks following one of the country’s most important political gatherings. China’s Two Sessions, which closed on Tuesday, appeared to further cement a business-friendly policy pivot towards technological innovation, consumption revival and private sector development. […]

The post Two Sessions, one rally: Private banks eye more policy-driven gains in China appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has named a head of the Investment Solutions Group in Hong Kong, the bank announced on Monday. Effective immediately and based in Hong Kong, Joey Tang is now Bank of Singapore’s head of the Investment Solutions Group in the region. He will report to Vivienne Chia, global head of the Investment Solutions Group, and locally to Rickie […]

The post Bank of Singapore names BOCHK veteran investment solutions head appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Over 250 attendees from Asia’s private banking and wealth management sector gathered to honour the recipients of Asian Private Banker’s Awards for Distinction 2024 during an exquisite gala dinner held at The Henderson in Hong Kong’s Central district on Thursday evening. Below are some select photo highlights of the evening:

The post Awards for Distinction 2024: Photo highlights from our gala dinner appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Once dismissed as a hobby for nerds and losers, video gaming’s acceptability has warped drastically over the last few decades, becoming a form of acceptable mainstream recreation and even an art form in the eyes of some. Not only that, but many are now realising the strategic depths and high-pressure competitive landscape of the video gaming world, with e-sports and […]

The post IWD 2025 – Do video gamers make better private bankers? BoS’s Annabelle Chow explains appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

In 2024, Bank of Singapore set out to redefine its investment approach with the launch of CIO 2.0, a strategy focused on strengthening portfolio management. A key component is its adoption of BlackRock’s Aladdin platform, which enhances transparency, risk management, and the overall client experience. Asian Private Banker spoke with the bank’s global CIO Jean Chia and James Verner, head […]

The post How BlackRock powers Bank of Singapore’s CIO 2.0 vision appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Secondary market transaction volumes hit record highs in 2024, as institutional investors and, increasingly, private banks ramp up their focus on one of the hottest parts of the alternative investments landscape. Alternatives heads at leading private banks in Asia explained to Asian Private Banker what’s behind this recent trend. “The increase in sales hitting a record in 2024 likely indicates heightened […]

The post Secondary funds are red hot. BoS and Pictet explain why appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

While relationship managers (RMs) in Asia still rely heavily on advisory revenues, recent market volatility has highlighted the importance of RMs promoting discretionary portfolio management (DPM) as a source of stable income, according to DPM heads, who feel that the long sales cycle still remains a key challenge. The adoption of DPM among RMs is influenced by factors such as […]

The post Are RMs onboard with DPM? BoS, BNP Paribas, Nomura DPM bosses have their say appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

In January, several high-profile bankers departed from major private banks in Asia. Meanwhile, US lender Citi looked to streamline its private banking leadership with a new organisational structure. The month’s series of departures began with Deutsche Bank’s North Asia head, Kanas Chan, resigning after holding the role since 2016. The German lender promoted Frederick Fong as her replacement later in […]

The post Movers & Shakers: Industry sees heavyweight departures as Citi rejigs structure, again appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

After almost 20,000 votes, Asian Private Banker’s readers have decided which private bank offers the best red packets in the Year of the Snake amid fierce competition. Here, APB reveals the winners of this year’s poll, as well as the meaning and messages behind the designs. Julius Baer won the poll again, with 38% of the votes. The Swiss bank also topped […]

The post Revealed: These private banks have the best red packets in the Year of the Snake appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore’s Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) branch has appointed six members for its advisory and product solutions in the region. Zeena Abou Elnaja will be joining Bank of Singapore’s investment advisory team as a director, investment advisor, according to a recent company announcement. In her new role, she will seek to strengthen the bank’s advisory capabilities across Gulf […]

The post Bank of Singapore hires six for Dubai advisory appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Singapore’s global reputation as a private banking destination has continued to thrive, underpinned by the city’s political and legal stability. In 2024, private banks in Singapore benefited from an influx of Greater China clients, the growing ASEAN wealth corridor and a supportive policy regime for new family offices, attracting more ultra/high net worth individuals to book assets in the city-state. […]

The post Five private banks to watch in Singapore in 2025 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Donald Trump has barely been US president for 48 hours, but the global economy could be in for a tumultuous four years if his actions so far are anything to go by, with the new leader of the world’s biggest economy threatening tariffs against trade partners ranging from Canada to China. Asian Private Banker spoke to three global CIOs for […]

The post What StanChart, Bank of Singapore, VP Bank CIOs are watching as Trump threatens tariffs appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

With the year of the snake approaching, competition between private banks in Asia is hotting up when it comes to who can distribute the most dazzling red packets to clients. These envelopes – known as laisee or hongbao – are traditionally given to family members and friends. However, they can also be highly sought-after collectors’ items and fetch a premium […]

The post Vote now: Who has the best red packets in Year of the Snake? appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

The former Bank of Singapore head of real estate advisory is joining a Singapore-headquartered real asset manager. Effective 22 January 2025, Yvonne Siew will join CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) as managing director & head, product development and wealth markets, private capital markets, according to a company announcement. In the new role, Siew will lead product development, client services and marketing […]

The post Ex-Bank of Singapore real estate advisory head joins property giant appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Private wealth investors are increasingly drawn to thematic investments, spurred by the success stories surrounding AI and tech funds. However, fund experts urge caution, highlighting the need for careful consideration amid the excitement generated by these emerging trends. “Investors today are increasingly seeking innovative strategies to drive growth, particularly through thematic strategies that can identify long-term structural themes and offer […]

The post Fund experts urge caution as private wealth flocks to thematic strategies appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Bank of Singapore has named three portfolio managers for its discretionary portfolio management (DPM) team, the bank announced on Monday. Ivan Goh joined the Singaporean bank as a senior portfolio manager in November. Goh most recently worked for LGT, where he was a Hong Kong-based senior investment strategist. Before that, he was a senior discretionary portfolio manager at the Liechtenstein-based […]

The post Bank of Singapore hires portfolio management trio for DPM team appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

From the rise of the Magnificent Seven and AI, to resurgent Chinese and Japanese markets, 2024 represented a return to form in terms of private banking client activity compared to the doldrums of 2022 and 2023. Nevertheless, the industry in Asia was stunned by several notable departures and appointments at top private banks. Below, Asian Private Banker highlights the most […]

The post HSBC, Bank of Singapore, VP Bank: The exec moves that shocked the industry in 2024 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Asian Private Banker is proud to present Final Word 2024, our annual year-in-review segment that highlights all of the crucial issues occupying the minds of the top regional leaders from the likes of UBS Global Wealth Management, HSBC Global Private Banking and Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management. Click here to read Final Word 2024 In this exclusive feature, top executives […]

The post Final Word: How private bank CEOs in Asia are gearing up to tackle 2025 appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

Veteran private banker Tee Fong Seng has resurfaced at Bank of Singapore as a board member, the bank announced on its website. Effective 1 January, Tee will become a board director at the Singapore-based private bank. Tee is a wealth management veteran with over four decades of experience. He held various senior leadership roles at top-tier private banks, including UBS, […]

The post Ex Pictet Asia CEO joins Bank of Singapore’s board appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

While private banks are working hard to attract clients and garner AUM, the competition goes beyond financial metrics, transcending into client experience and staff engagement. Previously, APB highlighted a selection of the most impressive private banking offices in the region, showcasing their unique features. With over two thousand votes, APB’s readers crowned UBS Singapore at Penang Road, featuring an extensive […]

The post Revealed: This private bank has the best Singapore office appeared first on Asian Private Banker.

This is the first in a series of articles Asian Private Banker will be rolling out in the coming months that interview the members of our first-of-its-kind Fund Selection Council. You can read more about the council, its work, and members by clicking here Having spent more than a decade working in a senior role at a sovereign wealth fund, […]

The post “It’s not a supermarket, it’s a curated platform”: How Bank of Singapore picks funds appeared first on Asian Private Banker.