Private Banking and Asset Management in Italy

Abstract

This chapter provides an analysis of the asset management industry in Italy from various perspectives. First, I analyse the size and trend of the market for asset management products and services, discussing the main underlying factors. This is followed by a closer investigation of the investment fund sector, one of the asset management industry segments that has experienced the largest drop in the amounts of funds managed during recent years; my aim is to identify the causes of this reduction and possible solutions for overcoming it. The strategic business area of private banking, serving HNWI (high net worth individuals) is also reviewed, to identify elements of similarity or contrast with the asset management industry overall.