UBS is teaming up with a network of alternative investment firms in the US that manages more than $300 billion in institutional assets.

The US National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC), the nation's largest network of diversely owned alternative investment firms, has signed up UBS as a partner. UBS will become a platinum sponsor of the Washington-domiciled NAIC to support its inclusive investing offering, according to a media release.

Largest US Network

Founded in 1971, the association counts more than 170 alternative investment firms that collectively manage more than $300 billion in institutional assets. NAIC member firms invest in more than 1028 portfolio companies worldwide, according to the association. As part of the sponsorship, UBS will support and participate in the NAIC's virtual and in-person events and programs with NAIC member firms, partners, and investment plan and institutional decision makers.

«At UBS, we're focused on driving more capital and investment to support diversity, equity, and inclusion,» said Tom Naratil, president of UBS Americas and co-president of global wealth management at the firm. UBS and NAIC seek to build long-standing relationships with member firms, including high-performing diverse-owned alternative investment managers, the statement added.

Inclusive Investing

NAIC will introduce UBS to its member firms through virtual and in-person roadshows that will support UBS' recently launched «Inclusive Investing» offering.

Naratil will soon be ending his long career at the bank, retiring from UBS on October 3, when Iqbal Khan will take over as sole head of UBS' flagship Global Wealth Management unit.