UBS has launched UBS Next, a $200 million portfolio targeting investments in the FinTech and broader tech ecosystem.
The bank stated that it is driving both internal initiatives, as well as existing strategic partnerships and external collaborations with technology companies, startups, regulators, peer banks, academia and industry thought leaders.
The UBS Next portfolio begins with a strategic collaboration with Anthemis, a global venture capital fund with expertise in FinTech investing, to accelerate deal flow origination. In addition, several direct investments are in evaluation.
“Connecting to FinTechs and tech startups through our innovation labs, digital factories, future of finance initiatives as well as project collaborations has always been key to remaining at the forefront of the digital movement to drive client experiences and operational excellence,” said Sabine Keller-Busse, group chief operating officer and president of UBS Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Mike Dargan, head of group technology, added: "UBS Next is a further step to accelerate our innovation efforts as well as to identify and apply the latest technology for our client businesses. With our investments through close collaboration with Anthemis, we widen our access to FinTech startups."
UBS Next will focus on enabling UBS's key strategic priorities, such as co-developing digital innovation and ecosystem through partnerships, research and innovation pipeline management, facilitated by centres of excellence.
It will also aim to modernise technical estates, leveraging new technologies such as public cloud, microservices architecture, and artificial intelligence, while finding more effective ways to engage with clients and deliver services.
UBS Next will primarily pursue direct investments into early stage FinTechs and other relevant tech companies. It will be funded exclusively by UBS and managed by a dedicated tech venture investment team.
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