As we enter the second month of 2024, the general market atmosphere is calm compared to the tumultuous 2023, which, nevertheless, ended on a high note for markets. The consensus is relatively positive going forward, anticipating a certain degree of rate cuts and controlled inflation, despite the uncertainties stemming from multiple geopolitical tensions. The result is a pickup in activity, both in hedge funds and private markets. We see interesting new launches, including hedge funds navigating towards hybrid PE strategies (again!) and various private market offerings targeting the European wealth management channel.
We have seen major private market platforms establishing a Swiss local presence recently. We also witnessed increased activity on the investor landscape as certain family offices based in Asia have chosen Switzerland as their new base. This serves as a reminder that the Swiss wealth management market, ranking among the top five globally, oversees wealth that comprises 45% from foreign sources.
Fund raising in Switzerland from professional investors continues at a strong pace. A pragmatic regulatory framework for raising capital from professional investors with a manageable additional layer of requirements when reaching out to opt-out professional investors, such as HNWI and their family offices, has helped Switzerland stand its ground as a prime European fundraising destination. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss how we can be helpful as your local partner.
UK-Switzerland Financial Services Agreement
Switzerland and the UK have entered a landmark mutual recognition agreement for financial services regulations. Mont-Fort views this as a positive development for the financial services industry. For more insights, visit https://montfortfunds.com/feel-the-berne-berne-financial-services-agreement-between-uk-and-switzerland/
EU MIFID Delegated distribution solution
Mont-Fort offers a regulatory solution for EU distribution in through a Joint Venture with a MIFID-licensed entity in Luxembourg. This delegation model enables fundraising teams outside the EU to market their AIFs to EU clients in a MIFID-compliant manner. Over EUR 2.5 billion has been raised in the last 24 months using this setup. Please email us for more information.
Mont-Fort is growing its team
Mont-Fort Funds is pleased to announce that Anne-Cathrine Frogg joined as Managing Director on December 1, 2023. With extensive experience in the alternative investment industry and Swiss representation, Anne-Cathrine will focus on business development and expanding our services. She will be reaching out to clients to discuss your fundraising efforts, with on the ground support, and European solutions where applicable. Anne-Cathrine will be in New York in March if you would like to set up a meeting, or would like to arrange a discussion, please contact her here.
