Manuel Blanco, Head of Gstaad and Greater Berne Area at EFG Private Banking, has been working in the region for over 20 years. He explains what makes Gstaad so compelling and how he and his team aim to exceed their clients' high expectations on-site.

“OUR CLIENTS SHOULD FEEL AT HOME WHEN USING OUR PRIVATE BANKING SERVICES”

At the end of December 2024, EFG opened a chalet-style branch in Gstaad. How important are local traditions for private banking clients in Gstaad?
Gstaad is a unique, iconic destination where winter sports meet wellness, and fame and Swiss discretion coexist. Local traditions are highly valued. Since the pandemic began, more and more people have recognised the need for a true safe haven and have chosen this beautiful place as their permanent home. Offering our clients a safe, discreet environment in a relaxed atmosphere is only the starting point of our service. We connect people through our extensive network and enable first-class services through complementary partners, such as relocation and real estate advisors. We have a highly experienced, long-standing team in Gstaad and offer our clients ample face time to ensure we meet their individual needs.

Speaking of individual needs: what are clients currently concerned about?
Beyond holistic, tailor-made advice that considers complex factors such as succession planning and individual tax situations, many clients have a strong need to protect themselves against volatility driven by ongoing, elevated geopolitical uncertainty. This can be achieved, for instance, through currency hedging against a weakening US dollar. Demand for gold has also risen in this context.

What does Gstaad offer that other luxurious Swiss mountain destinations do not?
Partnerships evolve quite naturally in Gstaad. This is no coincidence: Institutions such as Le Rosey, the international boarding school whose students represent more than 60 nationalities, and the JFK School Foundation, on whose board I serve, are just two examples of how connected this village is with the world. With Gstaad Saanen Airport on the doorstep, international visitors enjoy seamless access to the alpine resort.

Several competitors also offer private banking services in Gstaad. How does EFG stand out?
EFG combines global reach – we have over 40 locations – with strong local know-how. Driven by our deeply rooted culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, we offer our clients true partnership, with tailored solutions and best-in-class advice and execution. I have had the privilege of covering this region for more than 20 years with a long-standing team. Our clients should not just feel comfortable and safe. They should feel at home when using our private banking services. This is our aspiration.

In Financial Brief, GstaadLife speaks speaks with the people who shape how wealth is structured, protected, and transferred in the region. Each edition focuses on one trusted professional – from bankers and independent wealth managers to insurance specialists, real estate experts, and art advisors – whose work sits at the intersection of global finance and local realities.

BY JEANETTE WICHMANN