Banque Cramer & Cie SA

Bank Overview

Banque Cramer & Cie SA is a family-rooted Swiss private bank tracing its origins back to 1706 when Pierre Cramer was listed as an official banker in Geneva; its modern incarnation emerged in 1931 when François Cramer founded the asset‑management firm Cramer & Wagnière, later renamed Cramer & Cie. In 2002 it merged with CFN Compagnie Financière Norinvest, became a joint-stock company, and received its banking license in March 2003. The bank is led by CEO Erich Pfister, supported by COO Marc‑Henri Balma, Head of Private Banking André S. Mankowsky, CFO Stéphane Poulin, and Head of Investment Services Philippe Gougenheim, with Massimo Esposito as Chairman of the Board. Headquartered in Geneva, it operates three full-service Swiss branches—in Geneva (Avenue de Miremont 22, T +41 58 218 60 00, F +41 58 218 60 01), Zurich (Sihlstrasse 20, T +41 58 218 69 11, F +41 58 218 69 00), and Lugano (Riva Antonio Caccia 1, T +41 58 218 68 68, F +41 58 218 68 69)—all using the centralized support email info@banquecramer.ch. Additionally, it maintains representative offices in Moscow (Molochniy Lane 4, T +7 495 777 0808) and Dubai (Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC). The bank employs approximately 50 to 99 active staff (about 50 currently).

Services Offered

Core Services Offered by Banque Cramer

1. Wealth Management & Investment Advisory

Banque Cramer provides tailored investment solutions through:

• Discretionary Mandates: Clients, delegate day-to-day investment decisions to the bank, with portfolios managed according to predefined risk profiles—ranging from Fixed Income to Growth.
• Advisory Mandates: Clients receive personalized advice while retaining control over investment decisions.
• Bespoke Mandates: Custom solutions for sophisticated investors seeking specific investment themes or strategies.

2. Deposits & Related Services

The bank offers a range of services to secure and manage assets, including:

• Multi-currency and precious metal accounts
• Safe deposit boxes
• Securities trading and safekeeping
• Foreign exchange transactions (Forex)
• Debit and credit cards
• Fixed-term investments
• Cash management and payment transactions
• Tax statements and consolidated reports.

3. Estate Planning

Banque Cramer assists clients in organizing their wealth for future use, ensuring the preservation of long-term financial interests and facilitating the transmission of assets in line with family governance principles.

4. Credit & Financing

The bank provides expertise in credit and structured finance, including Lombard and mortgage loans, to support clients in their financial endeavors.

5. Bespoke Solutions

Leveraging financial engineering know-how, Banque Cramer develops tailor-made investment solutions to meet the specific needs of clients, reflecting their convictions and investment goals.

Commissions and Fees

Wealth Management & Advisory Fees

• Discretionary Portfolio Management: Banks often charge annual management fees ranging from 0.5% to 1.5%, depending on the asset size and investment strategy.
• Advisory Mandates: Fees typically range between 0.5% and 1.5% per annum, influenced by the level of service and asset volume.
• Minimum Fees: Some banks impose minimum annual fees, which can range from CHF 3,000 to CHF 15,000, especially for clients with lower asset balances.

 Transaction & Execution Fees

• Equities & Bonds: Transaction fees usually range from 0.20% to 1.5% per trade, with minimum charges often starting around CHF 25 to CHF 50.
• Structured Products & Derivatives: Fees can be higher, typically between 1% and 3%, depending on the complexity and customization of the product.
• Foreign Exchange: Banks may apply spreads ranging from 0.7% to 1.7% for major currencies, and up to 3.6% for less-traded currencies.

 Custody & Account Maintenance Fees

• Custody Fees: Annual fees generally range from 0.15% to 0.4%, with some banks offering tiered reductions for higher asset volumes.
• Account Maintenance: Banks may charge annual fees for account maintenance, which can vary based on the services provided.

 Additional Service Fees

• Safe Deposit Boxes: Annual rental fees can range from CHF 250 to CHF 1,150, depending on the size and location of the box.
• Transfers: Fees for outgoing transfers vary based on the amount and destination, with charges typically ranging from CHF 25 to CHF 350.
• Cash Transactions: Fees for cash withdrawals and deposits can range from 0.15% to 0.50%, depending on the currency.
• Administrative Costs: Banks may charge fees for services such as account statements, tax statements, and correspondence, typically ranging from CHF 30 to CHF 120.

Minimum Deposits

Personal Accounts

For personal accounts, Swiss private banks typically expect a minimum deposit ranging from $550,000+. Some banks may require higher amounts, especially for clients seeking comprehensive wealth management services. While Banque Cramer does not specify exact figures, prospective clients should be prepared for similar expectations.

 Business Accounts

Business accounts often necessitate a higher minimum deposit, reflecting the increased complexity and services associated with corporate banking. Industry norms suggest a minimum of $550,000 to $1 million, depending on the nature of the business and the services required. Banque Cramer may have comparable requirements, though specific details are not publicly available.

 International Accounts

For international clients, especially those from regions such as Latin America, Russia, and the CIS, Swiss banks often expect a substantial minimum deposit to mitigate the perceived higher risk. Amounts typically range from $550,000 to CHF 1 million or more. While Banque Cramer caters to international clients, specific minimum deposit requirements are not disclosed.

Why Choose Banque Cramer?

1. Personalized Wealth Management

Banque Cramer emphasizes a human-scale approach, providing tailored financial solutions that align with your unique goals and circumstances. Their relationship managers (RMs) play a pivotal role in understanding your needs and crafting strategies that reflect your aspirations. This personalized attention ensures that your wealth management is not just about numbers but about building a lasting partnership.

2. Agile Decision-Making

As a client of Banque Cramer, you benefit from a streamlined decision-making process. The bank’s structure allows for quick responses and flexibility, enabling you to seize opportunities and navigate challenges with efficiency. This agility is particularly advantageous in the dynamic world of finance.

3. Expertise in Complex Markets

Banque Cramer has developed expertise in managing assets in regions with complex political, economic, and legal landscapes, such as Latin America, Russia, and the CIS. Their RMs are well-versed in these markets, ensuring that your investments are managed with a deep understanding of the local dynamics.

4. Innovative Investment Solutions

The bank offers bespoke investment mandates, including “Absolute Return” and “Thematic” mandates, allowing you to align your portfolio with your personal convictions and investment objectives. These tailor-made solutions reflect Banque Cramer’s commitment to providing innovative and customized financial strategies.

5. Robust Technological Infrastructure

Banque Cramer leverages advanced technology to enhance its services. Their partnership with fintech firm Quantilia enables the bank to analyze vast amounts of financial data, improving investment decision-making and portfolio management. This technological edge ensures that your investments are managed with precision and insight.

6. Commitment to Long-Term Relationships

Trust and longevity are at the heart of Banque Cramer’s philosophy. They focus on building enduring relationships with clients, grounded in mutual understanding and respect. This commitment ensures that your financial journey is supported by a partner dedicated to your long-term success.

Requirements:

Banque Cramer & Cie SA

A private bank known for personalized wealth management, confidentiality, and international client services.

PERSONAL ACCOUNT – BANQUE CRAMER

For Non-Residents:

Minimum Deposit:

• Typically $550,000 to $1,000,000 for private banking services.

Required Documents:

1. Valid Passport
   • Must be clear, not expired.

2. Proof of Legal Address
   • Recent utility bill, lease contract, or bank statement (within 3 months).

3. Proof of Source of Wealth
   • Employment income, company ownership, inheritance, asset sale, etc.

4. Tax Identification Number (TIN)
   • From your country of residence.

5. Bank Reference Letter (optional but recommended)
   • From a reputable financial institution.

6. Completed KYC and Application Forms
   • Banque Cramer’s internal forms.

7. Video or In-Person Verification
   • May be required depending on your profile and jurisdiction.

Note:Due diligence is stricter for non-residents, especially from high-risk countries or sectors.

For Residents of Switzerland:

Minimum Deposit:

• Usually lower, often $550,000+, depending on the client profile.

Required Documents:

1. Swiss ID or Valid Passport + Swiss Residence Permit

2. Proof of Swiss Address
   • Utility bill, lease agreement.

3. Proof of Income or Assets
   • Salary slip, tax return, or investment documents.

4. Swiss Tax Number
   • If applicable.

5. Completed Application & KYC Forms

Advantage for Residents:

• Faster onboarding, access to local wealth planning services, easier ongoing relationship management.

BUSINESS ACCOUNT – BANQUE CRAMER

For Non-Residents (International Corporations):

Minimum Deposit:

• Starts from CHF 1,000,000+ (depending on business activity and risk profile).

Required Documents:

1. Company Registration Documents
   • Certificate of incorporation, articles of association, company registry extract.

2. Shareholder and Director IDs
   • Passports or government IDs.

3. Proof of UBOs (Ultimate Beneficial Owners)
   • Full disclosure is mandatory.

4. Detailed Business Description
   • Activity type, revenue model, location of operations.

5. Proof of Source of Funds / Wealth
   • Contracts, bank statements, company financials.

6. Tax ID Numbers
   • For the company and individuals involved.

7. KYC Forms & Enhanced Due Diligence
   • Especially for cross-border clients or high-risk sectors.

Note: Cramer is selective with international business clients. Certain industries (crypto, gambling, etc.) may be excluded.

For Swiss-Registered Businesses:

Minimum Deposit:

• Typically $550,000+, more flexible for established local companies.

Required Documents:

1. Swiss Commercial Register Extract
2. Company Bylaws / Articles of Incorporation
3. IDs of Signatories and Beneficial Owners
4. Swiss Business Address
5. Description of Business Activities
6. Tax Identification Numbers
7. Recent Financial Statements or Forecasts

Advantages:

• Easier KYC process, relationship with local staff, faster compliance approval.