Switching asset management: How to make the switch in Switzerland

At some point, many investors in Switzerland are faced with the question: Am I with my current asset management satisfied? Even experienced customers may be dissatisfied — whether due to non-transparent fees, lack of individualization, lack of flexibility, or the feeling that their own assets are not being optimally managed. Especially with capital starting at CHF 500,000 It is crucial to manage assets professionally and individually.

In this article, you will find out when it makes sense to switch, what steps you should take, what pitfalls are there and how to right asset manager find — including tips on how independent experts can help you make the transition safely.

An overview of the most important things:

● Starting position: Many investors in Switzerland notice when it comes to wealth starting at CHF 500,000that their current asset management is unsatisfactory — whether due to non-transparent fees, standardized strategies or a lack of individual support.

● Objective: Switching can make managing your assets more transparent, flexible and individual, minimizing risks and making optimal use of opportunities.

● process: With a structured approach — analysis, goal definition, vendor review, preparation and implementation — the change is efficient and secure.

● Risks: Typical pitfalls such as hidden costs, tax consequences, lack of transparency or incorrect choice of provider should be identified and avoided in advance.

● Expert help: Independent asset managers with local presence in zurich, St. Gallen, basle and luzern can professionally supervise the change and thus minimize effort, risk and uncertainty.

Typical reasons for dissatisfaction with the asset manager

Even long-standing investors and successful entrepreneurs sometimes notice that their asset management is not delivering the desired results. This is often due not so much to a lack of competence on the part of the provider, but to factors such as lack of transparency, standardized strategies or lack of individual support. Especially for wealth starting at CHF 500,000 Suboptimal care can lead to missed opportunities, higher costs and unnecessary risk—a reason to think about making a change.

 Non-transparent costs:
Unexpected fees and hidden product margins mean that investors bear higher yield losses than necessary.

Standardised strategies:
Portfolios do not match individual risk appetite or personal goals, as the same fund allocation is often used for all clients.

Lack of communication:
Customers feel uncertain and do not understand adjustments because they are often notified of changes late.

Conflicts of interest:
Recommendations are made partly out of the self-interest of the bank or provider, for example by selling the bank's own products instead of objective market solutions.

How a smooth change of asset manager

A change in asset management can be intimidating, but with clear steps, the process can be made efficient and secure. It is important that investors carefully analyse their goals, previous experiences and expectations before they trade. A structured approach minimizes risks, saves time and ensures that the new mandate meets individual needs.

Analysis of the current situation:
Review existing portfolios, cost structures, returns and current support and clearly identify what is unsatisfactory.

Definition of objectives:
Define investment goals, risk profile and desired service quality for the future.

Comparing potential providers:
Compare independent asset managers and banks, in particular with regard to experience, transparency, local support and costs.

Preparing for the change:
Review notice periods, deposit transfer and tax aspects to ensure a smooth transition.

Implementation & transfer:
Transfer assets securely, build up the portfolio according to new strategies and constantly monitor it.

Avoid risks and pitfalls when switching

A change in asset management can offer many benefits, but it also poses pitfalls that novice investors often underestimate. Wrong assessments, hasty decisions or a lack of transparency can lead to unnecessary costs, tax disadvantages or time delays. If you know the typical risks, you can avoid them in a targeted manner and make the transition smooth.

Hidden costs:
Some contracts include termination fees, performance fees or ongoing administrative expenses that only become visible when you switch.
Expert tip: Carefully review existing contracts and realistically calculate all applicable fees.

Tax pitfalls:
Custody transfers, the realisation of capital gains or fund changes can have tax consequences.
Expert tip: Consult an expert who is familiar with cantonal tax rules and points out opportunities for optimization.

Time delays:
A lack of coordination between old and new asset management can lead to unnecessary breaks in the portfolio.
Expert tip: Plan the change early on and implement it with experienced partners who actively support the process.

Lack of transparency:
Unclear investment strategies or lack of disclosure of past performance make it difficult to assess the new mandate.
Expert tip: Request detailed information and objectively compare providers and services.

Wrong provider choice:
Hasty decisions may mean that support from the new provider does not improve.
Expert tip: Involve independent, experienced experts, check references and ensure a local presence.

Switching doesn't have to be complicated, but the risks should be taken seriously. Ours independent asset manager provide you with professional support so that you can make well-founded decisions. Arrange your free, non-binding initial consultation.

Find the right independent wealth manager

Following the decision to change asset management, the focus is on selecting a new, competent partner. Choosing the right provider decisively determines whether assets are optimally managed, risks are professionally managed and individual goals are achieved in the long term. When searching, investors should pay particular attention to experience, independence and verifiable quality. Our editorial”Find the best asset manager in Switzerland” explains renowned awards such as the LSEG Lipper Award or the ranking of the business magazine BILANZ, which provide guidance when choosing.

Experience & track record:
The decisive factor is how long the provider has been active and what investment returns have been achieved over the years.
Expert tip: Review performance across multiple market cycles and include references from existing customers.

Independence:
Shows whether the asset manager is tied to specific products or banks or is free to decide.
Expert tip: An independent manager objectively selects the best instruments for your portfolio.

Transparency:
Includes clear disclosure of costs, investment strategies, and past performance.
Expert tip: Pay attention to clearly structured fee models without hidden product margins.

Local presence:
Refers to the availability of personal contacts on site.
Expert tip: Personal support in Zurich, St. Gallen, Basel or Lucerne facilitates direct and trusting communication.

Recognition & Awards:
Industry awards, rankings or certifications can provide clues to quality.
Expert tip: Awards such as LSEG Lipper or balance sheet rankings serve as indicators of professionalism and performance.

Philosophy & values:
Describes the provider's strategic direction and investment principles.
Expert tip: Check whether values and procedures match your goals — an initial consultation quickly provides clarity.

Personal wealth management near you

Dissatisfaction with previous asset management is not uncommon — especially when it comes to assets starting at CHF 500,000. Format Vermögen & Anlagen AG supports you in a secure, professional transition to an independent asset manager. At our locations zurich, St. Gallen, basle and luzern Our experts develop strategies individually according to your risk profile, goals and life situation.

A non-binding initial consultation enables you to personally get to know our values, philosophy and approach and to check how we can achieve your financial goals sustainably and securely. This is how you create transparency, independence and trust — decisive factors for a successful change in your asset management.

→ Arrange your free, non-binding initial consultation with one of our local experts

Frequently asked questions about switching asset management

When does it make sense to change an asset manager?

Switching is not only worthwhile if you are dissatisfied with returns. Other signals include: lack of transparency in fees and products, lack of proactive adjustment to market changes, or that individual goals — such as succession planning, inheritances or pension fund payments — are not being taken into account. An experienced independent asset manager systematically reviews your portfolio, identifies gaps and creates a strategy that fits your life situation.

How does the switch to a new asset manager in Switzerland work in practice?

The transfer of assets is usually carried out via your existing custodian bank. Your assets remain there while the new manager takes over management. A structured process minimizes tax risks, fee traps and liquidity bottlenecks. In practice, the change usually takes a few days to weeks, depending on the number of depots and the complexity of the investments.

What should I look for when choosing a new asset manager?

Ensure independence, regulatory approval (FINMA, FINIG), local expertise and transparent cost models. Check Awards and rankings such as the LSEG Lipper Award or the balance sheet ranking. A personal Initial consultation on site — approximately in zurich, St. Gallen, basle and luzern — enables the reconciliation of strategy, philosophy and risk profile.

What mistakes do investors often avoid when changing asset managers?

Typical pitfalls:

● Rushed decisions without reviewing existing contracts

● Switching to a provider who prefers their own products

● Neglecting tax consequences

● Lack of personal on-site support

Experts recommend that you review the decision with independent experts before capital is moved — this protects assets and makes optimal use of opportunities.

How do I specifically benefit from an independent asset manager when switching?

Independent asset managers offer objective strategies, take account of Switzerland's tax and regulatory features, continuously adapt portfolios to market movements and thus ensure long-term return, risk and transparency. Especially for wealth starting at CHF 500,000 Is this professional support worthwhile.

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