Clear structures are the basis of successful family office services – especially when it comes to complex asset situations.
In asset management, chaos quickly leads to costly mistakes. Novum Partners SA Geneva therefore relies on well-thought-out processes and transparent investment portfolio structures. This creates trust and measurable results.
Multifamily office Novum Partners SA has further expanded its systematic approach to asset management. With clear processes for every area of work – from client service to portfolio monitoring – the Geneva-based company creates stability in a volatile market environment. The figures speak for themselves: founded in 2018, the company now manages over 5 billion Swiss francs, with a growth rate well above the industry average. The latest Euromoney award as ‘Switzerland’s best wealth manager’ confirms this structured approach.
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Why structure is becoming more important in chaotic times
Markets have become unpredictable. The coronavirus pandemic, fears of inflation, geopolitical tensions. What worked yesterday may be obsolete today. That is precisely why structures are needed that provide stability even in turbulent times.
Without clear processes, what no one wants to happen can quickly happen: important decisions are postponed, opportunities are missed, risks are overlooked. Financial history is full of examples of wealth lost due to a lack of structure.
This is particularly critical in family office services. Complex family relationships, international structures, different asset classes. It’s easy to lose track. Unless you have systems that work even when things get really complex.
Clarity starts with the mandate structure
Novum Partners SA, formerly known as Novum Capital Partners SA, has developed a systematic approach to this.
Every client first goes through a structured onboarding process. Sounds bureaucratic? But it’s necessary.
This process covers more than just financial aspects. It also takes into account family structures, risk tolerance and long-term goals. Everything is documented, categorised and regularly reviewed. This takes longer than a quick initial meeting. But it prevents misunderstandings later on.
Investment portfolio management with a system
Chaotic portfolios are expensive. Overlaps between different positions, unnoticed risk concentrations, lost opportunities for optimisation. The list is long.
Systematic asset allocation strategy
What percentage of equities? Which regions? Which currencies? Without a system, such decisions are often made emotionally. Based on gut feeling or current headlines. Rarely a good idea.
Novum Partners SA Geneva uses a structured approach instead:
- Analysis of the current situation and long-term goals
- Development of a strategic asset allocation
- Selection of suitable instruments and managers
- Regular monitoring and adjustment as needed
The devil is in the details. Every step requires expertise, experience and, above all, discipline.
Risk management as a structural principle
Not all risks are the same. Market risk, currency risk, concentration risk, liquidity risk. Trying to keep track of all these things can quickly become overwhelming.
In concrete terms, this means that each position is categorised according to various risk criteria. Limits are defined and monitored. Regular stress tests reveal weaknesses. Boring? Perhaps. But it prevents unpleasant surprises.
A structured approach to alternative investments
Private equity, hedge funds, real estate. Alternative investments are often less transparent than traditional investments. This makes clear structures all the more important when selecting and monitoring them.
Due diligence according to a set formula
Every alternative investment undergoes the same review process at the Geneva-based company. Financial analysis, management assessment, risk assessment, legal review. No exceptions.
Why so strict? Because emotions are poor advisors. Even experienced investors are sometimes blinded by charismatic managers or spectacular success stories. Structured processes help to remain objective.
Structured communication creates trust
Wealthy families are busy. Nevertheless, they want to stay informed. How do you find the balance between too much and too little information?
Reporting with a clear hierarchy
Not all information is relevant to everyone. The patriarch may only be interested in the big picture. The son wants all the details. The daughter only wants to be informed about her own investments.
That is why Novum Partners, formerly known as Novum Capital Partners SA, has different reporting levels. Executive summaries for decision-makers. Detailed reports for interested family members. Technical reports for investment committees. Everyone gets what they need.
Regular reviews instead of ad hoc meetings
Spontaneous calls are inefficient. They often concern details that would be better addressed in a structured meeting. That is why we have fixed dates for different topics.
Monthly calls for current developments. Quarterly meetings for portfolio reviews. Annual strategy meetings for long-term planning. Sounds rigid? But it is more efficient.
Credit Consulting with clear structures
Financing also needs structure. Especially when it comes to complex international issues. Who is liable where? What collateral is available in which jurisdiction? What happens in the event of currency fluctuations?
Structured financing analysis
Before any terms are negotiated, a systematic analysis is carried out. Financing requirements, available collateral, tax aspects, legal framework. Only then are suitable solutions developed.
This takes longer than a quick loan from your house bank. But it often leads to better terms and lower risks.
Advice on new yachts as a structuring task
Buying a yacht sounds like a luxury problem. But it is often a complex structuring task. Ownership structures, choice of flag, financing, insurance, charter options. Without a clear plan, it becomes chaotic.
Systematic needs analysis
Before even looking for yachts, a needs analysis must be carried out. How will the vessel be used? Where will it be based? Family or business? Charter as a source of income?
The optimal structures change fundamentally depending on the answers. A family yacht needs different solutions than a charter investment.
That is why the Multi-Family Office works closely with yacht expert Benedetta Iovane.
Her nautical expertise is combined with the structural expertise of the Geneva team.
Structures for the future
The financial world is not getting any simpler. New regulations, more complex products, more volatile markets. Those who do not have solid structures today will face problems tomorrow.
Digitalisation as a structural aid
Technology can support structure. Automated monitoring, systematic reporting, digital archiving. But only as a tool, not as a substitute for human expertise.
At Novum Partners SA, digital tools are used strategically. To increase efficiency, not to reduce costs. Personal contact remains central.
Structure is unsexy. But necessary. Especially in an industry where small mistakes can have big consequences. Those who invest in clear processes today will reap the benefits tomorrow. Guaranteed? No. But very likely.
