Le Rosey is not only one of the most renowned private schools in the world – its distinguished alumni have long secured its international standing – but it also shares deep-rooted ties with Gstaad. Since 1916, students have spent their winter term here, from January through March. This longstanding connection gained a new dimension this summer with the introduction of the EFG Gstaad Award, a distinction that offers more than a trophy.

Justin P. looks into the camera and smiles. When he began his first year at the prestigious boarding school in Rolle, nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, he likely didn’t imagine standing five years later on stage in the school’s modern concert hall, receiving an award for the top economics diploma. But that’s exactly what happened.

Sharing the spotlight with him is Manuel Blanco, Head of Private Banking Gstaad at EFG Bank, who presented the award. The collaboration between Le Rosey and EFG Bank has now been in place for over a year. While the clear, sculptural trophy certainly makes for an elegant keepsake, Blanco acknowledges that recognition alone isn’t always enough to spark ambition among students. “A monetary prize could be a nice addition,” he notes, “but an exclusive opportunity is often more memorable.” For this reason, the prize includes an internship at EFG, offering the award recipient a chance to gain first-hand insight into private banking – starting from the ground up.

EFG’s involvement with financial education extends beyond this partnership. The bank supports a number of initiatives with schools and universities, and it will soon host the EFG Finance Day in Gstaad. In this full-day workshop, Le Rosey students will explore strategies for building a successful asset allocation.

With his studies now complete, Justin P. plans to take a few weeks off and finally dive into a book his father recently gave him: The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham, the pioneering advocate of value investing. A fitting read for a young economist – and one that echoes the broader philosophy of supporting lifelong learning and financial awareness among future generations.

EDT