Julius Baer has announced the launch of a new share buyback programme of up to CHF 600 million. After receiving regulatory approval and given its solid capital base, the Board of Directors approved a new share buyback programme, the bank said in a statement on Friday.

The programme is expected to begin in the coming weeks and be completed within one year. Its execution will depend on prevailing market conditions, the bank added. The shares will be repurchased via a second trading line on the SIX Swiss Exchange.

Payout ratio between 40 and 60 per cent

The group also announced a revised capital return policy. The dividend payout ratio is to remain between 40 and 60 per cent of IFRS group profit attributable to shareholders. The group’s aim is to pay a progressive dividend per share, provided no extraordinary events occur.

Julius Baer also remains committed to maintaining a sound capital base, with a target CET1 capital ratio of 15 per cent.

Preserving financial strength

"It is important to learn from the past, while at the same time looking to the future and remaining committed to sustainable, high-quality growth," says Chairman of the Board Noel Quinn. "Our revised capital policy reflects the highly capital-generative nature of our business as well as a balanced approach to capital returns."

Excess capital is to be returned to shareholders, while the necessary financial strength and flexibility to implement the confirmed financial targets for the current 2026–2028 cycle are to be preserved, the chairman added.