Frequently asked questions

Opening an account

Accounts can be opened at NPB Neue Privat Bank AG following a face-to-face discussion. It is very important to us to develop a genuine and longstanding relationship with our clients based on trust.

Minimum investment volume

NPB does not have a minimum investment volume for opening a client relationship. With a best-in-class fund portfolio small investment volumes can also benefit from modern asset management geared to absolute returns. Customised asset management mandates can also be set up from around CHF 500,000.

Security

As a Swiss bank NPB comes under the supervision of the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). Ernst & Young AG have been the bank’s external auditors since it was established. It should be noted that under Swiss legislation all portfolio assets (securities and fiduciary deposits) held at a Swiss bank remain the property of the clients.

As an asset management bank, NPB is very sound financially thanks to its equity ratio, which far exceeds the legal minimum. The credit business has been the principal cause of the small number of bankruptcies and imbalances suffered by Swiss banks in the last 200 years. Against this background NPB is very conservative in its lending; only granting credit when it is collaterally secured. For further credit requirements, we are happy to refer our clients to suitable partners.

Banking secrecy / discretion

Banking secrecy covers all data that is obtained in the course of a business relationship between banks and clients. The client’s right to secrecy is protected under the Swiss Federal Law on Banks and Savings Banks. Discretion at NPB means that this right is observed in every respect, something which is naturally easier for a smaller bank to do.

EU Savings Tax Directive

Since 1 July 2005 Swiss banks have deducted tax on interest earned by individuals who are resident in an EU country for tax purposes. Since 1 July 2011 this tax has amounted to 35 per cent. Interest paid by borrowers resident outside the EU is also taken into account. We are happy to refer you to selected international partners who can advise you on tax matters.