In 2019, Maerki Baumann made one of the boldest bets in recent Swiss private banking history: it ventured into the world of digital assets, blazing a trail for others. Since then, the family-owned bank has offered its crypto services under the ARCHIP by Maerki Baumann brand.

In addition to traditional wealth management, the bank’s ARCHIP solutions cater to private clients, external asset managers, family offices, and blockchain/crypto firms. The offerings range from trading and custody of digital assets to crypto asset management and global payments processing for tech firms. They also support clients during fundraising rounds through Token Generation Events (TGEs).

“One of Our Best Decisions”

A central focus is on regulation and security. Maerki Baumann’s crypto services are fully integrated into the existing Swiss banking framework and are regulated by FINMA, Switzerland’s financial markets authority.

«Our entry into digital wealth management was one of the best decisions we've made in years,» says CEO Zwahlen. Initially, competitors met the plans with skepticism, often mocking the bank’s move. «At first, our crypto strategy was ridiculed – then it became our Unique Selling Proposition (USP). Today, Maerki Baumann is doing better than ever,» Zwahlen says with pride.

New Business Area: Entrepreneur Banking

To deepen its expertise in digital assets, Maerki Baumann formed a strategic partnership with Bitcoin Suisse in 2024. Together, they established a Crypto Advisory Board to coordinate crypto investment processes and product development – giving the bank’s offerings greater technological depth.

In 2025, the next stage of expansion is set to follow: The bank has announced plans to apply for a license to open a branch in Abu Dhabi Global Market, a free trade zone. This move targets strategic access to a dynamic growth market in the Middle East.

The bank also launched a new business line called Entrepreneur Banking, offering a 1e pension solution tailored to entrepreneurs, which includes allocations to crypto assets. «We had the choice between consolidation or expansion. Standing still was not an option. We’ve acquired too much crypto know-how for that,» says Zwahlen.

Younger, More Tech-Savvy Client Base

Maerki Baumann’s crypto initiative has broadened its client base. In addition to traditional private clients, the bank now attracts younger, more digitally savvy investors. According to Zwahlen, the Tech Banking division, which serves clients from the crypto community, now contributes significantly to the bank’s total earnings.

A Shift in Thinking

Many who once scoffed at Maerki Baumann’s approach are now seeking dialogue on the topic. «There is a shift happening in the wealth management industry.» Increasingly, professionals are recognizing that even a small allocation to crypto assets can boost portfolio returns without significantly increasing risk.

Zwahlen is convinced: «Those who cannot offer solutions across all relevant asset classes will soon come under pressure.»