SKN | Aquila Launches New Asset Management Firm in Zurich

Aquila has expanded its footprint in the Swiss financial center with the launch of a new Zurich-based asset management firm, Aquila Investment Partners. The newly established entity marks a strategic move by the Aquila group to broaden its presence in regulated asset and investment advisory services while maintaining a focused, non-bank business model.

Aquila Investment Partners officially began operations in December and is registered as a FINIG-regulated asset manager. The firm is headquartered at Bahnhofstrasse 43 in Zurich, placing it at the heart of Switzerland’s financial district. The launch comes amid sustained demand for independent asset managers offering tailored investment solutions in a tightly regulated environment.

Focused Business Model Under FINIG Regulation

According to information obtained by finews.com, Aquila Investment Partners is structured to provide asset management, asset advisory, and investment advisory services. In addition, the firm intends to develop financial products and offer supporting services related to general financial and asset advisory activities.

Notably, the company has drawn clear regulatory boundaries around its operations. Activities requiring a banking license, securities firm authorization, or collective asset management approval are explicitly excluded from its scope. This approach reflects a growing trend among Swiss financial firms to operate with regulatory precision, focusing on advisory-driven mandates rather than balance-sheet-intensive activities such as lending or deposit-taking.

By positioning itself as a FINIG-compliant asset manager, Aquila Investment Partners aligns with Switzerland’s evolving regulatory framework while retaining flexibility to serve private and institutional clients seeking bespoke investment strategies.

Experienced Leadership and Board Composition

Governance at the newly formed firm is led by Reto Hartmann, who will serve as chairman of the board. Hartmann brings extensive experience in financial services and governance, providing strategic oversight as the firm establishes itself in the competitive Zurich market.

Carine Frick-Delaloye, head of Aquila Bank, also joins the board, reinforcing the link between Aquila’s broader financial ecosystem and the new asset management entity. She is joined by Claudio Henseler and Nicolas Peter, both long-standing Aquila professionals, ensuring continuity with the group’s existing investment culture and operational expertise.

This board composition underscores Aquila’s intention to combine institutional experience with entrepreneurial agility, a balance increasingly valued by clients navigating complex markets and regulatory expectations.

Capitalization and Strategic Positioning

Aquila Investment Partners has been incorporated with a fully paid-in share capital of CHF 500,000, signaling a solid capital foundation from launch. While modest compared to large banking institutions, this level of capitalization is consistent with independent asset managers focused on advisory excellence rather than scale-driven growth.

The Zurich launch reflects Aquila’s confidence in Switzerland’s role as a global hub for wealth management, asset allocation, and investment advisory services. As investors continue to seek transparency, regulatory clarity, and tailored portfolio solutions, FINIG-regulated asset managers are expected to play an increasingly important role in the Swiss financial landscape.

With its clear mandate, experienced leadership, and prime location, Aquila Investment Partners enters the market positioned to compete in a segment defined by trust, specialization, and long-term client relationships.