Asian private banking: Still room for growth

Costs are rising in Asian private banking but the vast and untapped pools of wealth in the region mean that it is still a highly attractive business proposition. The adverse market environment will further reduce margins. However, on a long-term basis the opportunities are too good to miss. Helen Avery reports.

WHICH FIRM WOULD not want to be in private banking in Asia? About one-third of the world’s millionaires live in the region, and their wealth is growing fast. According to the Merrill Lynch/Capgemini World Wealth Report, wealth in the region is growing at an annual rate of 8.5%, second only to the Middle East.

Many of these assets have yet to work their way into private banks. One private bank head estimates that only about 17% of high-net-worth individuals in the region have private banking relationships.

Access intelligence that drives action

To unlock this research, enter your email to log in or enquire about access