The GCC Private Banking conference set to be held next month in Bahrain by Euromoney, will focus on key topics including regulation and its implication on the future of private banking.

 A total of 200 private bankers and wealth managers from the GCC region and abroad will attend the conference set to take place at the Ritz-Carlton hotel on March 7, a statement said.

The event will be co-hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB).

Rohit Walia, executive vice chairman and CEO, Sarasin-Alpen, Middle East, said: “The world of private banking is changing at a rapid pace with the current market conditions and evolving regulatory framework and investor preferences. Private banks need to respond to these changes and review their approach to business. I look forward to the exchange of views with other business leaders on the topic.”

“As the local GCC institutions overcome some legacy investment issues, recruit, develop and grow, they will be conduits for a much greater share of the wealth management and private banking business, both conventional and Islamic, in five years. Whatever the actual shape of the industry, real estate will remain a favored asset class and destination of the HNWI wealth,” said Nicholas Judd, founder partner of 90 North.

“However, I think you will see a great deal more partnering between GCC banks and international property specialists sharing revenues during the life cycle of transactions,” he added.

Key areas of focus include global regulation and its implications on the future of private banking, risk and return and best management strategies, the statement said. – TradeArabia News Service