The merger between UBS Switzerland AG and Credit Suisse (Schweiz) AG was finalised on July 1, 2024.
Hans Baumgartner, Head of UBS in Gstaad, shares insights on what this means for local clients and UBS's strengthened position in Gstaad.

What does the merger mean for your clients?
Legally, UBS Switzerland AG is now the contracting party for Credit Suisse clients. However, this does not currently lead to any changes in their day-to-day interactions with us. The legal merger sets the stage for further integration steps.

Will CS client reationships and products transfer to UBS systems?
Yes, this transition is planned for 2025 and will be done in multiple waves due to the different complexity of client relationships.

Do former CS customers need to take any action?
We will inform clients early and transparently. Most clients do not need to take any action now, and our overarching goal is to ensure a smooth transition.

Which branch will serve clients in Gstaad in the future?
Both branches will operate until autumn, after which services will move to the current CS building. A new tenant is being sought for the UBS building. UBS will maintain 23 branches across the canton of Bern, including Gstaad, Thun, Interlaken, and Grindelwald. The move will also extend the benefits to UBS customers by providing them with longer opening hours at the former CS branch.

How will the merger benefit the local community?
UBS Gstaad is now stronger, operating as one bank and team for Gstaad and Saanenland. I want to thank our clients for their loyalty and patronage.

What does the future team in Gstaad look like?
The combined team consists of 24 employees, 16 in wealth management and 8 in private client business. It leverages the expertise and experience of both banks and offers a broader range of products.

Why should a private client choose UBS?
We aim to be the best bank for our clients throughout their life cycle, offering payment and savings solutions, investment advice, property financing, and pension services. Furthermore, we are the leader in digital banking in Switzerland.

What sets UBS apart in wealth management?
UBS is a leading and truly global wealth manager that combines over 300 years of Swiss quality and experience. From planning your finances to providing individual solutions, we focus on helping you get more out of life and your wealth. Our “UBS My Way”approach, for example, offers holistic financial advice tailored to individual life goals, with more than 80 investment modules that can be customised into a personalised portfolio.

What about your international activity?
We are active in all major financial centers worldwide. Our global reach and coverage enable us to understand local conditions and advise clients in various locations, from Asia and America to London and Gstaad.

What advisory services do you offer in Gstaad?
Our clients benefit from seamless cooperation across different areas of the bank. We offer comprehensive financial services, including inheritances, succession planning, and complex investment solutions, always focusing on the unique needs and personal goals of our clients.

Will UBS continue to rely on the Gstaad location?
Absolutely. We are committed to serving our clients locally with staff familiar with the local situation. Over half of our team hails from the region, such as Saanen, Schönried, Boltigen, Château-d'Oex, or Rossinière. We plan to train apprentices in Gstaad again and have already advertised a vacancy. Our strong presence in Gstaad is also reflected in our regional sponsorships, supporting events like the Gstaad Menuhin Festival, Impact Gstaad, Thunerseespiele, and the Bern Art Museum.

UBS Switzerland AG |
Promenade 66 | 3780 Gstaad |
+41 33 748 85 11 | www.ubs.com

About Hans Baumgartner
Hans Baumgartner has led UBS in Gstaad since October 2023.
He previously worked at Credit Suisse for 30 years, holding various management positions in private and corporate client businesses.