External Asset Manager (EAM)

An external asset manager (EAM) is a wealth manager which works independently from banks. Wealth managers may be individuals or companies.

The terms external asset manager and independent asset manager are often used synonymously, although not all external asset managers are completely independent in the strict sense of the word.

Services offered are numerous and vary between service providers, depending on their level of specialization. Tax consultation, cash management, trading, estate planning and inheritance management are among the services offered by EAMs.

Some external wealth managers focus on specific areas or investments. Examples of specialized areas of practice include: Real estate, commodities, dividends, derivatives or structured products, fixed-term deposits, specific categories of stocks, private equity and hedge funds.

External wealth managers may also focus on specific types of clients. Generally, a difference is made between services provided to private clients and those provided to institutional clients, but wealth managers may service both types of clients. Other possible focus areas include clients in specific sectors, a specific type of client – small and medium-sized businesses or startups, for example – or clients from a specific country or region.

External asset managers open accounts at third-party banks and custodian banks on behalf of their clients. Assets are held by banks. External asset managers are typically granted a power of attorney over accounts by clients to facilitate asset management.

Online trading brokers in comparison

Find the cheapest online broker now

Compare now
Trading platforms

Brokers with low fees

Swiss Trading Platform

Cornèrtrader Special Offer

  • Special offer: particularly favorable conditions for Moneyland users

  • No custody account fees for shares

  • Swiss online bank with FINMA license

Swiss Broker

Saxo Bank Special Offer

  • Special offer: Reimbursement of brokerage fees up to CHF 200 for 90 days

  • Licensed Swiss bank (FINMA)

  • Free expert research and trading signals

Deal of the Day
×
Swiss Trading Platform

Cornèrtrader Special Offer

Special offer: particularly favorable conditions for Moneyland users

Wealth managers in comparison

Find the most favorable wealth management now

Compare now for free
Editor Daniel Dreier
Daniel Dreier is editor and personal finance expert at moneyland.ch.