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20Sep2026

Banks vs EAMs: Who Wins?

Personal views, not investment advice – see the full disclaimer below.

A determined businessman in a suit pulling a rope, symbolising the competitive tension between traditional banks and independent external asset managers (EAMs) in the wealth management sector.

Big banks are playing their workforce card. They rely on armies of analysts, expansive research teams, and well-funded investment advisory divisions. Their goal? Impress clients with sheer scale and resources.

But what about independent wealth managers? How can they compete in a market dominated by size and volume?

The answer lies in innovative strategies and technology. Here’s how we, as independents, can stay ahead:

1️⃣ Leverage Multi-Banking Access: By using multiple banking platforms, we gain access to a diverse range of research insights. This lets us combine the best ideas from various sources while staying agile and unbiased.

2️⃣ Adopt Independent Research Tools: Independent wealth managers can use high-quality, third-party research providers to rival the insights of the biggest banks. This flexibility ensures our clients receive tailored advice, not one-size-fits-all solutions.

3️⃣ Harness AI Technology: Artificial Intelligence is a game-changer. It processes massive amounts of data in seconds, identifies patterns, and highlights opportunities faster than traditional methods. With AI, we can analyse complex investment scenarios and make smarter, quicker decisions.

Now, let’s ask the bigger question: Is investment advisory effective?

Think of investment advisory as using a GPS. It offers the best routes and avoids known roadblocks. But even the smartest GPS can’t adjust for sudden detours or unpredictable traffic unless you know how to respond. The same goes for financial advice. It’s only as effective as the strategy behind it and the person understanding it.

Independent wealth managers excel here. We don’t just offer advice; we partner with clients to align their investments with personal goals, adapting as markets and lives change.

What’s your view? Is investment advisory the future, or is something else driving the next wave of success?

Source: LinkedIn

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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the vapa Swiss independent wealth management blog are solely my own and do not reflect those of any institutions or organisations with which I am affiliated. I lead an independent wealth manager in Switzerland, so I write about this industry as a participant in it, not as a neutral observer. These posts are intended to share personal insights and should not be interpreted as official statements or as investment advice. See the legal notice for details.

Beyond the Bank – A Private Banker’s Path to Independence

Discover how today’s private bankers can break free from traditional institutions and build truly independent client relationships. This guide shares the strategies, challenges, and opportunities behind a successful move into independent wealth management.

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