*"The modern family office is no longer just a private investment hub; it's a global strategy center," said Adrian Koh, CEO of Helios Capital, during a press briefing in Singapore this week. "Our recent move reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of high-net-worth families who demand both comprehensive solutions and personalized care across jurisdictions."*
Helios Capital, a prominent name in wealth management across Asia, has announced its acquisition of Meridian Private Advisory, a boutique consultancy specializing in family office services and cross-border tax planning. The acquisition is part of Helios Capital’s broader strategy to diversify its offerings as it caters to an increasingly global clientele. By integrating Meridian’s expertise in legacy planning, governance structures, and international residency solutions, Helios aims to position itself as a full-service provider for ultra-high-net-worth families across Asia and beyond.
Founded in 2008, Helios Capital has built its reputation by managing substantial portfolios for private investors and institutional clients, with assets under management exceeding $12 billion. However, the firm has increasingly recognized the shifting priorities of its client base. Wealth preservation across generations, alongside the complexities of cross-border tax compliance and residency planning, has emerged as a critical concern for many of its clients. The acquisition of Meridian Private Advisory allows Helios to offer a more holistic service suite, addressing these needs under one roof.
Meridian Private Advisory, headquartered in Zurich with offices in Hong Kong and Dubai, has carved out a niche in advising global families on intricate wealth structuring. Its founder, Claudia Meier, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, *“Joining forces with Helios Capital allows us to enhance our capabilities while maintaining the bespoke, client-centric approach that has been our hallmark. Together, we are poised to redefine how family office services are delivered in an increasingly interconnected world.”*
The merger also reflects a growing trend among wealth management firms seeking to consolidate and expand their offerings. As regulatory scrutiny tightens across jurisdictions and economic volatility persists, high-net-worth families are looking for partners who can navigate these complexities while safeguarding wealth. By acquiring Meridian’s specialized knowledge in tax structuring and international law, Helios Capital is not only enhancing its competitive edge but also signaling a strategic shift toward integrated wealth solutions.
The timing of this acquisition is particularly significant as family offices in Asia are experiencing unprecedented growth. According to a recent report by UBS, the number of family offices in the region has surged by nearly 30% over the past five years, fueled by rising wealth in markets such as China, India, and Southeast Asia. With this growth comes increased demand for sophisticated advisory services that go beyond traditional investment management.
Helios Capital plans to integrate Meridian’s team into its operations by the first quarter of 2024, with a focus on seamless service delivery for existing clients of both firms. The combined entity will offer services ranging from portfolio management and tax optimization to governance frameworks and citizenship-by-investment programs.
As Koh emphasized during the announcement, *“This is more than an acquisition. It’s a step toward building a platform that understands the global lifestyles and multi-generational priorities of today’s wealthy families. Our aim is to be a trusted partner, not just for wealth management but for every aspect of legacy planning.”*
By positioning itself at the intersection of wealth management and family office services, Helios Capital is setting a precedent for how firms in the sector can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing market.
(Editors: admin)