Deals & Cases

J. Safra Sarasin Group to Acquire a Majority Stake in Saxo Bank A/S

10. März 2025 – Today, J. Safra Sarasin Group, a global leader in private banking and wealth management, announced the acquisition of approximately 70% of Saxo Bank A/S, a leading international FinTech bank for investors, traders, and institutional (BaaS) partners.

This strategic acquisition, previously held by Geely Financials Denmark A/S and Mandatum Group, aims to enhance the global long-term potential of both J. Safra Sarasin Group, with client assets of USD 247 billion, and Saxo Bank, with USD 118 billion in client assets. Saxo Bank will continue to operate as a standalone entity, with its founder and CEO, Kim Fournais, retaining approximately 28% ownership. J. Safra Sarasin Group's acquisition strategy focuses on innovative and diversified financial businesses, further enhancing its growth and international footprint in financial services. The integration of Saxo Bank’s technology platform will establish a new frontier in wealth management, setting a benchmark for innovation and client experience in the industry. The transaction is subject to standard regulatory and other approvals, including from the FINMA and the DFSA.

Walder Wyss advised J. Safra Sarasin Group as lead counsel in the transaction on contractual and regulatory matters. The team was led by Patrick W. Vogel (Partner, Banking and Corporate/M&A) and further included Laurent Schmidt (Managing Associate, Banking and Corporate/M&A), Anaëlle Genoud (Senior Associate, Banking & Finance), Dzeneta Hrustic (Associate, Banking and Corporate/M&A), and Gion Giger (Counsel, Antitrust and Competition).