Bank on the future by looking internationally

By: Erik Olwagen, Head of Sales and Distribution, International Personal Banking at Standard Bank, (Isle of Man).

The relaxing of exchange controls that have allowed South African residents to easily move money offshore has been a boon for the financial services sector. Advisers and wealth planners have rightly been quick to seize the opportunity to give their client’s portfolios a more international flavour.

This is a theme that is enjoying renewed interest as savvy South Africans look to diversify their assets to reduce their domestic exposure.

This is prudent decision, which is made all the simpler when working with the right partner able to deliver a comprehensive international solution.

In that regard, few would be able to match Standard Bank’s physical footprint across Africa and proud history of serving international clients from well-regulated financial centres. Our operations in Mauritius, Jersey and Isle of Man serve individual, family and trustee clients, as well as the international operations of our corporate clients.

Strong international relationships

We have a long and proud history that is centred on upholding the highest standards and ethics. We leverage this reputation to build lasting relationships with clients and the adviser community.

We distribute our range of banking products directly to clients as well as through a global network of independent financial advisers. We value these relationships and have a team and resources dedicated to ensuring that you receive only the best support to satisfy your clients.

Similarly, we cater to the corporate and trust market through a team of dedicated relationship managers. We are able to offer expert advice and services to ensure that clients entering international markets have all the support and protection they need.

All the banking you need

Underpinning our international strategy is the ability to provide a holistic service. Your clients will have the assurance that their money is secure, and that they will be able to transact anywhere around the globe.

This is made all the simpler using digital platforms such as Online Banking and the Mobile Banking App. We employ the latest, secure technology to allow your clients to make payments, transfers, open accounts and interact with relationship managers from anywhere they have an internet connection.

Our international solutions cover the full suite of services a client would need. Transactional banking accounts provide the pathway to accessing international savings products, loans and a complete range of investments.

International lifestyles

The ability to expand one’s horizons to travel, study or work abroad is now within the grasp of a growing number of families. The thought of saving in hard currencies like US dollars or British pounds for a child’s education, because that is where they intend studying, is now a far bigger reality than was the case 20 years ago.

Our comprehensive solutions are focused on making this journey all the smoother and simpler for clients striking out onto the global stage.

You can offer this convenience to your customers. Speak to a Standard Bank representative today to find out more about our complete services offshoresa@standardbank.com, or visit International.standardbank.com