Strategy and development

UBS’s strategic priorities

Client focus: UBS’s purpose is to serve clients and give them confidence in making financial decisions. As client needs and the financial services industry constantly evolve, UBS makes a systematic effort to capture client feedback, identify potential for improvement and adapt its offerings accordingly.

Profitable growth and earnings quality: UBS strives to establish sustainable earnings based on customer benefit.

Risk and capital management: Taking, managing and controlling risk is a core element of UBS’s business activities. UBS’s aim is not, therefore, to eliminate all risks, but to achieve an appropriate balance between risk and return.

Business divisions’ franchises: UBS operates as a Group with business divisions that are accountable for their own results, but combine to provide a broad palette of cross-business solutions for clients. UBS considers the breadth and depth of its offering to be one of its main strengths, and key to its ability to create value for clients and shareholders.

Measures taken

The firm’s strategy was reviewed in 2008, by its Board of Directors and Group Chief Executive Officer, and a new strategic direction was announced in August 2008.

New policies and procedures were implemented in 2008 for corporate governance and risk management and control. The firm also developed new key performance indicators and a new compensation model for implementation in 2009.

In 2009, UBS will operate with four business divisions: Wealth Management & Swiss Bank, Wealth Management Americas, Global Asset Management and the Investment Bank.

The Investment Bank is in the process of re-positioning itself toward clientdriven growth and reducing its balance sheet and risk positions.

Top