[ T H O U G H T L E A D E R S H I P | R B I ]
Connecting markets :
The strategic role of RBI ' s Group Prime Services
You often talk about the bridging function that RBI or Group Prime Services stands for . What do you mean by that ? Christian Geberth : Group Prime Services ( GPS ) provides broker-to-custody solutions for clients investing in various asset classes on a global basis . As such , we are ideally placed to act as a bridge between different regions , specifically between East and West and vice versa . We are the infrastructure for Austrian and Eastern European investors to invest in global asset classes and likewise for international investors to invest in specific Eastern European assets . Our USP is our specific knowledge of the related local environment in Eastern Europe , our direct connectivity to local market infrastructure and our excellent relationships with the international investment world .
What exactly characterises GPS and what specific solutions and innovations do you offer your customers ? CG : Our deep understanding of local specifics in Central Eastern Europe ( CEE ) sets us apart ; we have helped build these markets and understand the needs of local clients . We also maintain excellent connectivity with major institutional players and local infrastructure , creating sustainable business and macroeconomic value . Although not the largest global player in asset services , we ensure efficiency and modernisation with our innovative e2e model , implemented three years ago . This framework unites business , operations , and IT in an agile tribe . We ’ ve achieved double-digit efficiency gains , reduced operational risk , and modernised our platform , significantly improving
Bridging East and West , RBI ’ s Group Prime Services navigates the complexities of the global investment landscape . In this interview , Christian Geberth , head of Group Prime Services , and Elitza Kavrakova , head of Institutional Clients , discuss how their innovative solutions and advanced technologies , combined with extensive local market knowledge , create sustainable value and exceptional experiences for clients .
customer satisfaction and acquiring new mandates through our team ’ s combined expertise .
What is the value chain from brokerage to custody at GPS and what are the advantages of integrating brokerage and custody at RBI ? CG : Our Brokerage 2 Custody platform serves as a modern and efficient gateway to the investment product universe . In practice , this means a one-stop-shop concept starting from execution to safekeeping services – with a fullyfledged asset servicing offer ( including comprehensive tax services ), which – depending on the client type and needs – can also include the full range of depository bank and fund administration services . Our GPS experts provide our customers with a profound understanding of their needs , in-depth market and process knowledge and services that span the entire value chain . This allows our clients to focus on their core competencies and needs in selecting appropriate investment opportunities . We take care of the rest .
How do you see custody as a gateway to fixed income investments and the brokerto-custody model ? Elitza Kavrakova : Custody offers an excellent opportunity from a coverage perspective to think about and offer a product bundle , e . g . making it easier for clients and meeting their needs out of one hand - with the ability to buy securities through our capital markets desk and use the broker-to-custody service ; one service provider offering excellency alongside the entire value chain .
What is the role of ESG in the CEE market and how is it addressed by GPS ? EK : The CEE market is very diverse in terms of ESG , depending on which region or country we look at and the size of the financial player . Institutional clients in EU countries in CEE are more advanced in their approach to sustainability than others , but the awareness of the topic and
32 Global Custodian Fall 2024