Kathrein Privatbank: Innovating Private Banking with Digitalisation, Sustainable Investing, and Regional Expansion

For over a century, Kathrein Privatbank has remained a benchmark for private banking excellence in Austria. By blending traditional values with innovation, the bank has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of its clients. Whether through advanced digital banking solutions, sustainable investment strategies, or expertise in wealth structuring, Kathrein maintains its reputation for first-class financial services.

In this exclusive interview, CEO Wilhelm Celeda discusses the bank’s approach to maintaining its leadership, the upcoming e-banking app, and its strategic vision for the future.

Congratulations on winning Best Private Bank Austria in 2024. How has Kathrein Privatbank maintained its premier position?
A: Thank you. Our success comes from combining innovation with a strong client focus. One of our key initiatives is Kathrein Family Konsult, which provides expert wealth structuring, inheritance planning, and foundation management. With nearly half of Austria’s wealth set to change hands over the next two decades, our role is to help clients navigate these transitions smoothly. Awareness of professional wealth planning remains low, and we encourage clients to start early, especially when managing complex assets.

We have also expanded our investment solutions. Our new dividend strategy enhances individual securities selection, focusing on both quality and dividend potential, ensuring broad diversification even in more defensive equity strategies. Another significant development is the Kathrein Private Markets Platform, which provides eligible investors with seamless access to global private equity markets. Traditionally, investing in private equity has been a complex process. Our platform simplifies this, offering exclusive access to a carefully curated selection of international funds, vetted by our Private Equity Expert Team and partners.

By continuously refining our services and staying ahead of market trends, we ensure that Kathrein Privatbank remains at the forefront of private banking.

Could you elaborate on the bank’s digital initiatives and the upcoming e-banking app launch in 2025?
Digitalisation is a key priority, and our upcoming e-banking app, launching in 2025, will significantly enhance client experience.
We understand that high-net-worth clients expect more than just basic online banking. They need a platform that provides a comprehensive, secure, and intuitive way to manage their assets. Our app is designed to offer a clear overview of portfolios, allowing clients to monitor investments, access reports, and execute transactions effortlessly.

Security and usability are at the heart of its development. Advanced analytics will allow us to personalise financial strategies, ensuring each client receives tailored advice. Beyond that, the app will integrate new features to enhance transparency and accessibility, reinforcing our commitment to a seamless, first-class digital banking experience.

By investing in digitalisation, we are not only meeting current expectations but also positioning Kathrein Privatbank for the future of private banking.

With a focus on sustainable investing and regional expansion, what are the key strategies driving Kathrein Privatbank’s success?
Our growth is anchored in sustainability, regional expansion, and enhanced client services.

Sustainable investing is now a defining factor in modern financial strategies. Clients increasingly want investments that align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, and we are committed to integrating these across our portfolios. This approach not only meets client demand but also ensures responsible, long-term growth.

We are also expanding our presence in Central Europe. As wealth in the region grows, we see significant opportunities to extend our expertise in private banking to a broader client base. To support this, we are actively growing our private banking team, ensuring that our personalised services reach more clients across European markets.

Ultimately, our success comes from adapting to changing market needs while staying true to our tradition of excellence. By embracing digitalisation, sustainable investing, and regional expansion, we ensure Kathrein Privatbank remains a leader in private banking.

Kathrein Privatbank’s ability to evolve while maintaining its core values is the foundation of its enduring success. As 2025 approaches, its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and client-first strategies will keep it at the forefront of private banking excellence.

This is for marketing purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation, recommendation, or offer to buy or sell any investment instrument. Investments in financial instruments are subject to market fluctuations.