UBS invests in digital tech firm SigFig, develops new platform for advisors
UBS Wealth Management Americas (WMA) invests in tech company SigFig
UBS Wealth Management Americas (WMA) and tech company SigFig has formed a “strategic alliance” to develop digital technology for UBS WMA, its financial advisors and their clients.
San Francisco-based SigFig specialises in wealth management software. It will create and customise digital tools and services for UBS WMA’s 7,000 advisors.
UBS WMA’s remit is domestic US and Canadian wealth management businesses, plus international business booked in the US.
It says the new digital platform will enable its advisors “to efficiently provide advice on assets held at UBS and other institutions, a critical factor in providing truly personalised financial advice”.
UBS WMA has also made an equity investment in SigFig, “underscoring its long-term confidence in SigFig’s platform, innovative technological capabilities, and management”.
In addition, the two companies will set up a joint Advisor Technology Research and Innovation Lab – which is envisioned as “a forum” where the specialists from both sides can exchange ideas and develop new capabilities.
“It is vital for our industry to innovate and provide advisors with advanced technology that enables service, advice and access aligned with how clients live their lives today,” states Tom Naratil, president of UBS Americas.
Mike Sha, CEO of SigFig, comments that “it is an honour to have been selected by a company with the reach and stature of UBS WMA”.
SigFig says its flagship product – Enterprise Digital Wealth Platform – “helps millions of people around the world track and optimise over $400 billion in assets”.
The company was founded in 2007. It is backed by a number of venture capital firms, including Bain Capital Ventures, Union Square Ventures, DCM, and Nyca Partners.
UPDATE on 24th May 2016: Santander InnoVentures, the fintech venture capital fund of Santander Group, has also announced its investment in SigFig.
