The EAM Market in Motion: Age Demographics, Consolidation, and Pressure from All Sides

The Swiss market for independent asset managers (EAMs) is undergoing a profound transformation. An aging ownership structure, increasing regulation, technological demands, and growing client expectations are putting many EAMs under pressure. Those who act with foresight today can not only secure their own position—but transition their independence into a new chapter.

Age Demographics: A Profession Reaches Retirement

More than 60% of independent asset managers in Switzerland are now over the age of 55.
Many of them have built a stable, trust-based business model over decades. But the reality is clear: Countless offices are home to unresolved succession issues—often due to lack of time, uncertainty, or perspective.

We regularly speak with advisors who would like to hand over their business with care—but don’t know how to structure the transition. The age structure in the industry is a wake-up call: Now is the time to set a course.

Regulatory Pressure Continues to Grow

With the introduction of FINIA and FIDLEG, the day-to-day reality for many EAMs has changed.
The requirements related to compliance, reporting, internal controls, and technical infrastructure have increased—and will continue to do so. Many smaller asset managers struggle to shoulder this burden on their own.

What we observe: The time available for client service is shrinking—while the administrative workload keeps growing. This makes it all the more important to consider synergies, partnerships, or succession models.

Consolidation: The Market Is Moving—Slowly but Steadily

Numerous small EAMs are thinking about mergers, cooperation, or exiting the profession.
While some are proactively reaching out, many hesitate—out of fear of losing control or giving up their independence.

Our experience shows: The best solution is rarely a hard break, but rather a well-planned transition. Models like integration, partial cooperation, or gradual handovers offer the flexibility many EAMs are looking for—if conversations begin early.

Der Handlungsdruck wächst – aber auch die Chancen

Klar ist: Der Markt wird sich weiter konsolidieren. Die Anforderungen steigen, der Wettbewerb wird anspruchsvoller und Kunden werden sensibler für Themen wie Nachfolge und Stabilität. Wer jetzt handelt, kann aktiv gestalten. Wer wartet, muss später oft reaktiv handeln – unter schlechteren Bedingungen.

Wir begleiten EAMs auf diesem Weg – partnerschaftlich, strukturiert und mit einem tiefen Verständnis für ihre Realität. Gemeinsam schaffen wir Lösungen, die wirtschaftlich sinnvoll, menschlich stimmig und regulatorisch tragfähig sind.

The Pressure Is Growing—But So Are the Opportunities

One thing is clear: The market will continue to consolidate. Requirements are increasing, competition is becoming more demanding, and clients are growing more sensitive to topics like succession and long-term stability. Those who act now can actively shape their path forward.
Those who wait will often have to react later—under more difficult circumstances.

We support EAMs on this journey—collaboratively, with structure, and with a deep understanding of their reality. Together, we develop solutions that make economic sense, resonate on a human level, and stand up to regulatory scrutiny.

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VSV Study 2024

• More than 60% of EAMs are over 55 years old
• Only 32% have a concrete succession plan
• 45% cite regulatory pressure as a serious burden
• Over 50% are looking for a flexible handover model that does not involve a hard break

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External Links:

FINMA Informationen für Vermögensverwalter zur Bewilligungspflicht

FINMA Informationen zu FINIG und FINLEG

Nachfolgeplanung für KMU – Grundlagen (KMU Portal SECO)

VSV – Verband Schweizerischer Vermögensverwalter

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