The Hamburg-based private bank Privatbank Berenberg is no longer an unknown player in Switzerland. With its focus on professional clients a strong ESG profile, and a clear specialization in the European small-cap segment, it positions itself as a serious provider for pension funds, family offices, banks and asset managers.

A key driver of this development is Franck Sabbah. 

Since 2016, the sales expert has served as Head of Asset Management International Sales (excluding Germany) at Berenberg. Switzerland plays a central role in Sabbah’s plans. «Zurich and Geneva are cities we’re particularly focused on, and where we want to be perceived not just as investment managers but as asset managers,» he says. 

Small Caps as a Differentiating Feature

The key to this strategy lies in small caps—equities of companies with relatively low market capitalizations. This sets Berenberg apart from many of its competitors. While numerous asset managers in Europe offer broad-based strategies, Berenberg deliberately narrows its scope. «What we serve on the plate should also appeal to our clients,» Sabbah puts it.

According to him, European small caps offer an attractive opportunity : despite underwhelming performance in recent years, many stocks are trading at valuation levels reminiscent of the financial crisis, while delivering strong earnings growth.

The focus is on companies with high return on equity that have historically outperformed large caps. Berenberg sees alpha potential particularly in under-researched market segments through active stock selection.

«Especially in Northern Europe, for instance in Sweden, there are highly innovative companies with robust growth and attractive valuations,» says Sabbah.

Private Debt as Another Niche 

Another area Berenberg is concentrating on is private debt. «This is a niche we've identified for ourselves where we aim to be strong,» he states. This area is of particular interest for the Swiss market.

With this strategy, Berenberg aims to further strengthen its appeal to pension funds, insurance companies, and family offices. These institutions are currently seeking ways to diversify in the current environment—without sacrificing returns or ESG compliance.