The Genevan boutique is a hostage to change, says CEO François Reyl. Swiss banks standing still are living dangerously, he tells finews.com in an interview.
François Reyl, Banque Reyl has launched a subsidiary – Asteria – for social and impact investments. Isn't Reyl's own brand suitable?
We want Asteria to be a «pure play» in the market. In impact investing, it's important to not be, let's say tainted through the various interests within a financial group like ours. We believe this offer distinguishes us from others.
Many Swiss asset managers are indeed tilting strongly towards sustainability – with the lobby group's support. Is Asteria in danger of disappearing in a huge field?
We don't want to claim to be the only ones to have discovered the topic. But there are few banks which only focus on impact investing like we do, and with a separate brand. I think we're offering an innovation here.
It seems typical of Reyl to launch business ideas which are copied by the wider sector shortly after – you were early onto entrepreneur banking and private market investments, which are now popular themes at private banks.
You flatter us. We began modestly, and the bank grew healthily over the years. We mainly achieved it with the organic development of our business. Innovation is an absolute must for us, especially in disruptive times for banking like now.
Move or die?
It's dangerous to stand still right now. Being innovative helps protect margins and to grow. That's why innovation is at the heart of our business. And to be honest, it makes daily business a lot more interesting.
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