Leadership Change at Switzerland's Oldest Private Bank

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Rahn+Bodmer, Switzerland’s longest-standing private bank, is experiencing a major change. In a recent announcement, the bank revealed that André M. Bodmer, an unlimited liability partner since 1995, won’t be returning to his active role following a recovery period after an accident. While he’s stepping back from daily operations, he’ll remain financially connected to the bank as a limited partner.

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Passing the Torch

Bodmer’s departure comes during a larger generational shift at the bank. This transition began in 2023 when Jay Bidermann became the first member of his family’s fourth generation to join as a partner. The remaining five partners continue the bank’s tradition under the same respected name, with a strong financial backing of over 200 million Swiss Francs.

Christian Rahn, a Rahn+Bodmer partner, commented on Bodmer’s departure: “While we’re saddened to see André M. Bodmer step down, we appreciate his years of dedication to the bank. We wish him all the best in his continued recovery.”

A Legacy of Tradition

As Switzerland’s oldest private bank, Rahn+Bodmer has a rich history and values centered on traditional private banking. It’s currently led by these five partners: Peter R. Rahn, Martin H. Bidermann, Christian Rahn, Christian R. Bidermann, and Jay Bidermann, who represent two generations. As unlimited liability partners, they share the bank’s responsibilities, giving them a personal stake in its success.

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Looking Ahead

These changes at Rahn+Bodmer show that even long-established institutions need to adapt. André M. Bodmer’s departure marks an end of an era, but it also signals a new one. With strong foundations and a focus on the future, Rahn+Bodmer is ready to continue its legacy of excellence in the private banking world.

Partner	Generation	Role in Transition
André M. Bodmer	Third	Departing Partner
Jay Bidermann	Fourth	Incoming Partner
Christian Rahn	Third/Fourth	Continuing Partner
Peter R. Rahn	Third	Continuing Partner
Martin H. Bidermann	Third	Continuing Partner
Christian R. Bidermann	Third	Continuing Partner

As Rahn+Bodmer navigates this transition, its commitment to its clients and its heritage remains unwavering, ensuring the bank’s continued prominence in the Swiss financial landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a non-resident open a Swiss bank account remotely in 2026?

Yes. Under FINMA Circular 2016/7 on video and online identification, Swiss private and commercial banks can onboard non-resident clients remotely using encrypted video verification and apostilled KYC documentation.

What is the typical minimum deposit for a non-resident Swiss private bank account?

Tier-1 Swiss private banks typically require CHF 1,000,000 to CHF 3,000,000 in bankable assets, specialized mid-sized private banks accept CHF 500,000 to CHF 1,000,000, and digital investment platforms accept CHF 50,000 to CHF 100,000.

How are client securities protected if a Swiss bank fails?

Under Article 37d of the Swiss Banking Act, custody securities—including equities, bonds, ETFs, and physical precious metals—are segregated off-balance-sheet and never enter the bank’s bankruptcy estate, while cash deposits are insured up to CHF 100,000 by esisuisse.

What is the difference between Form A and Form K under CDB 20?

Form A declares the ultimate beneficial owner of assets held personally or through a passive domiciliary company, whereas Form K identifies the controlling persons holding 25% or more of an active operating legal entity.

How long does Swiss bank compliance onboarding take for international clients?

Once a complete Source of Wealth and Source of Funds dossier is submitted, compliance verification and account activation typically require 2 to 4 weeks for personal accounts and 3 to 6 weeks for complex corporate structures.

Does opening a Swiss bank account trigger automatic tax reporting under CRS?

Yes. Under the OECD Common Reporting Standard (CRS), Swiss banks automatically exchange annual account balance and investment income data with the tax authorities of the account holder’s jurisdiction of tax residence.