Rothschild & Co has entered into an agreement with Liechtenstein National Bank to integrate its operations in the United Arab Emirates, showcasing its ongoing commitment to the Middle Eastern market. The wealth management division in Dubai has experienced significant growth since its launch in 2024.
The firm announced that it has signed a business transfer agreement with the Liechtenstein National Bank, which will see the bank’s employees and clients in the UAE transition to Rothschild & Co. This strategic move aims to solidify the company’s presence within the wealth management sector in the region.
As part of this agreement, approximately 20 employees will join Rothschild & Co’s wealth management unit, along with assets under management valued at about one billion Swiss francs.
Leveraging Dubai’s strategic location and its promising growth potential, this expansion allows Rothschild & Co to broaden its client base among high-net-worth individuals, enhancing its market presence and operational efficiency. Additionally, it strengthens the company’s service portfolio in both public and private markets, as well as corporate advisory services. The merger of the two platforms positions Rothschild & Co as a comprehensive provider of wealth management solutions, delivering enhanced value to employees and clients alike.
Promising Opportunities
Alexandre de Rothschild, Executive Chairman of Rothschild & Co, stated: “In recent years, we have witnessed consistent and robust growth in our global wealth management business, particularly in the Middle East. The consolidation of Liechtenstein Bank’s operations in the UAE is a crucial step that supports our strategy in one of our key global sectors and in one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. This deal reflects our strong confidence in the UAE’s promising and expanding potential as a major hub for regional and global wealth.”
Strong Network
Laurent Ganiban, Partner and CEO of the Wealth Management unit at Rothschild & Co in Switzerland, mentioned: “Since launching our wealth management services in Dubai less than a year ago, we have successfully built a robust network supported by our global advisory team in Dubai. Our agreement with Liechtenstein Bank is a significant catalyst that will allow us to reinforce our market position. We are confident that, with our strong portfolio of solutions, we will be able to assist both existing and new clients in the region in structuring and managing their wealth in a fluctuating global environment. We look forward to welcoming Liechtenstein Bank’s clients into the Rothschild & Co global network.”
Wealth Hub
Saeed Al-Awar, Partner and Head of Rothschild & Co Middle East, commented: “For two decades, we have established a strong presence in the region, continuing to grow and invest through various economic cycles. We are confident in the growing potential of the UAE and the region as a whole. This transaction enhances the quality of our wealth management solutions and improves the services we provide locally while strengthening our relationships with clients in the area. All of this is important as we witness the region transforming into a major hub for wealth and entrepreneurship. We look forward to welcoming clients and employees from Liechtenstein Bank into the Rothschild & Co network and team.”
Rothschild & Co will incorporate all current employees of the Liechtenstein Bank into its team while maintaining its office in Dubai, increasing the total number of employees in the wealth management unit to around 25 under the leadership of Sasha Benz, Head of Wealth Management for Rothschild & Co Middle East.