about us
Rooted in a long-standing banking family tradition starting in 1746, Marcuard caters to both private clients and families. Our independence, transparency, and alignement with our clients’ interests help us deliver the performance, loyalty and service we are known for.
the marcuard network
Leveraging our global network, we serve clients worldwide with the local expertise and personalized service that our independence provides.
-
GENEVA
-
ZURICH
-
LUGANO
-
PARIS
-
CYPRUS
-
SINGAPORE
-
MONTEVIDEO
-
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
how we differ from banks
-
Contrary to many financial institutions, at Marcuard there are no hidden fees:
No commission on your transactions
No sale of in-house investment funds
No third-party payments
Designing financial products in-house while advising clients results in conflicts of interest, but thanks to our independence from banks, our advisors never have to sell in-house products - they work for you.
This is why as a pure-play fully independent client advisor, our interests always align with yours.
We win when you win.
-
Independent of any custodian bank, we provide our clients with unparalleled service and unbiased advice:
Clients stay in full control of their accounts.
Access to preferential fees from numerous banks and brokers, like Morgan Stanley or Pictet among others.
Marcuard's sole function is to advise its clients and protect their interests.
Marcuard offers the following mandates: Execution, Advisory, and Discretionary.
-
Today's wealth management landscape is polluted with standardized products, lacking the tailoring and personalized attention our clients deserve. This results in the bundling of clients into rigid categories and in the assignment of ordinary investment products on that basis.
How we differ:
Our individualized strategies based on time-tested principles and century-old tradition ensure every solution continuously responds to your personal circumstances and needs.
By dealing with banks on your behalf, we render this process frictionless, responsive, and smooth.
You talk to the owners. Direct communication guarantees efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness.
At Marcuard, there is no one size fits all, we understand your demands, and your preferences matter.
We are always just one phone call away.
-
Marcuard recognizes the complex and diverse needs of its clients, and aspires to be a one-stop shop for all the financial needs of its clients.
Every solution we offer is designed with this principle in mind.
We are committed to exceeding expectations by going beyond offering traditional solutions and services, ensuring every facet of our clients' financial lives is expertly managed.
Whatever it is, we find a way to make it work.
who we work with
Pictet Group
-
Lombard Odier
-
Bordier & Cie
-
Julius Baer
-
Vontobel
-
Swissquote
-
Syz Group
-
Morgan Stanley
-
Intesa Sanpaolo
-
Banque de Luxembourg
-
Pictet Group - Lombard Odier - Bordier & Cie - Julius Baer - Vontobel - Swissquote - Syz Group - Morgan Stanley - Intesa Sanpaolo - Banque de Luxembourg -
270 years of innovation
1746 Johann Rudolf Marcuard (below) founds the bank Marcuard & Co, one of the first banks in Switzerland, starting with international trade, then specializing in securities trading.
1767 Maria Theresa of Austria, looking for capital after the 7 year war, takes on multiple loans from Marcuard, hoping to restore the dire finances of the Austrian Empire.
1775 Samuel Friedrich Marcuard, son of Johann Rudolf, leads the bank to become one of the most important financial houses in Europe.
1789 The Holy Roman Emperor Joseph II takes on a £1.2M 10-year loan from the bank. He then goes on to take multiple loans from Marcuard, and knights Johann Rudolf Marcuard. The bank has now worked with most major royal families in Europe.
1798 On March 5. 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops conquer Bern. Marcuard & Co is the only Bernese bank founded before the French Revolution that will survive this troubled time.
1830-50s Established in most European countries, the bank finances the railway revolution in Switzerland and France, and plays a decisive role in the industrialization of Switzerland. It also co-founds multiple shipping, insurance, and commodities companies in France.
1919 The Spanish flu wrecks havoc in Europe, killing over 50 million people. André Marcuard, who was running the bank at the time, falls ill and Credit Suisse acquires Marcuard & Co.
1995 After becoming CEO of Credit Suisse First Boston in 1989, Hans-Joerg Rudloff, a direct descendent of the Marcuards, re-opens the bank in Geneva.
1995-2016 Hans-Joerg and Philippe Rudloff shift the scope of activities towards wealth management, convinced that a family-office model prioritizing clients’ needs is a winning model. They found multiple Marcuard entities globally, including Atlantis Marcuard in 2016.
the marcuard legacy
-
Johann Rudolf Marcuard
FOUNDER - Marcuard & Cie
Johann Rudolf Marcuard (1721–1795) founded Marcuard & Cie in Bern in 1746.
Initially focused on cross-border trade, the bank quickly expanded into international payments and securities trading, becoming one of Switzerland's first and most prominent banks.
Marcuard & Cie served European royal houses, including Austria and Denmark, and played a crucial role in the Austrian Empire's capital formation after the Seven Years' War. It became one of the most important banks in 18th-century Europe.
The bank was instrumental in financing Switzerland’s 19th-century industrialization.
Following André Marcuard's death in 1919, Credit Suisse acquired the bank, which was subsequently re-launched by Hans-Joerg Rudloff.
-
Hans-Joerg Rudloff
HONORARY CHAIRMAN - Atlantis Marcuard
Hans-Joerg Rudloff, a direct descendant of Johann Rudolf Marcuard, pioneered the fast-growing Eurobond market in the 1970s, earning the nickname “Mr. Eurobond”.
He began his career at Kidder, Peabody, and Co., becoming Chairman and CEO of Credit Suisse First Boston in 1989. In 1998, he became Chairman of Barclays Capital, a position he held until his retirement in 2019.
In 1995, Hans-Joerg relaunches Marcuard in Geneva, recognizing the evolving landscape of private banking. Believing that clients' interests should always come first, he redirected Marcuard towards the American multi-family office model to align the company's interests with those of its clients.
Between 1998 and 2016, Hans-Joerg and his son, Philippe Rudloff, launch multiple Marcuard entities globally, with offices in Switzerland, Europe, South America, and Asia.
-
Philippe Rudloff
FOUNDER AND CEO - Atlantis Marcuard
Philippe Rudloff is an experienced financier with over 25 years in private banking and wealth management.
He began his banking career in 1995 with Merrill Lynch’s investment banking operations in New York and Paris.
In 1997, he founded Marcuard Latin America in Buenos Aires, later expanding to Montevideo, Uruguay. From 1998 to 2001, he served as a private banker at the Marcuard Bank in Geneva.
He then joined Bordier & Cie Banquiers Privés in Geneva, becoming Managing Director and Member of its Board.
In 2016, Philippe founded Atlantis Marcuard Geneva to expand the Marcuard brand, and to create a client-centric firm, dedicated to prioritizing client’s needs.
He continues the family's entrepreneurial legacy.
Board of Directors
Serge Calame - Partner Meyerlustenberger Lachenal
Fiore Fiorello - CEO FF Marcuard
Philippe Rudloff - CEO Atlantis Marcuard
Advisors
Hans-Joerg Rudloff - Honorary Chairman
Vlad Antoniade - Senior Advisor
Catherine Zoller - Independent Senior Legal & Tax Advisor
FAQs
-
What services do you offer?
We offer bespoke investment management, financial planning, estate planning, tax optimization, philanthropic advisory, relocation solutions, and family office services, tailored to the needs of ultra high net worth individuals.
What is your investment philosophy?
Our investment process is guided by a systematic and rules-based philosophy. We combine our partners' expert research with our own in-house research, experience and judgement, to find the best opportunities for our clients.
Our long-term approach helps minimize the risk of portfolios while maximizing returns.
Do you only provide financial solutions?
No, our 360-degree philosophy ensures we provide our clients with an array of different services, seeking to match all their financial needs under one roof.
Our specialized services include fine art collections, other collectibles, as well as property and lifestyle management.
-
Who are Marcuard's Clients?
We serve wealthy individuals and their families, including athletes and artists.
Why should I become a Marcuard client?
Marcuard's advisors and team have worked and held leadership positions in the most recognized financial firms in the world, and offer clients expert and means-tested advice to generate performance.
Marcuard has low and transparent fees, further boosting performance.
Having an expert whose interests always align with yours (thanks to his independence from banks) allows you to have accounts in different banks globally, yet maintaining centralized control over all of them, minimizing fees and avoiding any suboptimal investments.
What makes you different?
We leverage our network to gain our clients access to some of the most exclusive financial solutions, including hedge funds, private equity, and other alternative investment opportunities.
We are known for our transparent and reasonable fee structure, as well as for our unmatched service. Communication is at the core of everything we do, and our clients benefit from our accountability, responsiveness, and flexibility.
At Marcuard, you talk with the owners, who are always just one phone call away.
-
How does Marcuard tailor its services to meet the needs of each family?
We begin with an in-depth assessment of the family's financial situation, goals, and values. Our team of experts then creates a customized strategy that encompasses all aspects of wealth management, ensuring that every service aligns with the family’s objectives and dynamics.
What services does Marcuard offer to family offices?
Marcuard provides comprehensive services including investment management, estate and succession planning, tax optimization, risk management, and philanthropic advisory. We also offer administrative support, financial reporting, and consolidated performance tracking.
I am a first generation entrepreneur who's concerned with the transmission of my company to my children, can you help?
Yes, many of our clients have built successful companies that they would like to see continue growing, and have come to us for advice to pass the company on to the next generation. Marcuard's main objective is to consolidate our clients' legacy, and children are absolutely a part of it.
How do you handle succession planning and intergenerational wealth transfer?
We develop tailored succession plans that ensure a smooth and tax-efficient transfer of wealth across generations. Our strategies include setting up trusts, creating family governance structures, and educating the next generation on wealth stewardship.
Can Marcuard assist with philanthropic initiatives?
Yes, we offer strategic philanthropic advisory services to help families develop and implement effective giving strategies. This includes establishing charitable foundations, managing donations, and aligning philanthropic efforts with the family’s values and goals.
How do you integrate financial and non-financial goals in your planning?
We take a holistic approach to wealth management, integrating financial objectives with non-financial goals such as legacy planning, family governance, and philanthropy. This ensures a well-rounded strategy that addresses all aspects of the family’s wealth and values.
-
What are the benefits of joining Marcuard as an independent wealth manager?
Joining Marcuard allows you to leverage our robust infrastructure, regulatory licenses, and established reputation. You benefit from our comprehensive support services, including compliance, IT, and back-office operations, enabling you to focus on client relationships and growth.
How does Marcuard support independent wealth managers?
We provide a full suite of support services such as compliance management, cutting-edge IT solutions, marketing support, and access to a wide range of investment products and research. Our infrastructure is designed to help you serve your clients more effectively and efficiently.
What infrastructure does Marcuard provide to independent wealth managers?
We offer a robust infrastructure that includes advanced portfolio management systems, secure client communication platforms, and comprehensive back-office support. This infrastructure helps streamline your operations and enhances service delivery to your clients.
Can I maintain my independence while partnering with Marcuard?
Yes, you can maintain your independence while benefiting from Marcuard’s resources and support. Our model is designed to empower independent wealth managers, allowing you to retain control over your client relationships and business operations.
What investment products and research does Marcuard offer?
Marcuard provides access to a diverse range of investment products, including bespoke and traditional investments, and comprehensive research. Our research partners deliver in-depth market analysis, investment insights, and strategic guidance to help clients make informed decisions.
How do I join Marcuard as an independent wealth manager?
To join Marcuard, contact us to discuss your interest and background. We will evaluate your experience and client base to ensure a good fit. Once onboarded, you will receive comprehensive training and support to integrate smoothly into our platform.
What are the financial arrangements for independent wealth managers at Marcuard?
Our financial arrangements are designed to be competitive and fair, reflecting the value you bring to the firm. Specific terms can be discussed during the onboarding process, ensuring a mutually beneficial agreement.
What is the minimum AUM (Assets Under Management) required to join Marcuard?
The usual AUM to join Marcuard as an independent wealth manager is around CHF 50 million. This ensures that our infrastructure and resources are optimally utilized. We are always happy to discuss with anyone interested in joining us, so feel free to contact us regardless of your AUM.