Interview with Group CIO Stefan Mächler

"We offer our clients a clear value proposition"

Mr Mächler, what sets Swiss Life Asset Managers apart in particular? 

Swiss Life Asset Managers is an established asset manager and leading institutional real estate investor in Europe. We have over 165 years of market experience and extensive expertise as a risk manager. Responsible investment decisions are an essential part of our DNA. 

We offer our clients and investors a broad range of investment solutions in the fixed income, real estate, equities, infrastructure and multi-asset asset classes. We actively manage these assets in order to achieve sustainable and attractive returns. They form the basis for sound, reliable financial planning for our clients. 

What requirements do you want your investment strategy to meet? 

Swiss Life enables people to live a self-determined life so they can look to the future with confidence. As we have institutional clients in particular, we make our contribution on two levels: our mission is to support our clients in achieving their long-term investment objectives. We also think of the clients of our institutional investors, for example pension funds, who are ultimately able to plan their retirement and financial future in self-determination. With our knowledge and our experience, we develop future-oriented investment solutions and invest the assets of our clients responsibly and risk-aware.  As an experienced risk manager, we accompany our clients over the long term. To this end we rely on responsible, long-term investment decisions, which naturally also take sustainability aspects into account. 

What is the role of sustainability at Swiss Life Asset Managers?

It plays a big role because we are very committed to responsible investing. We incorporate all the ESG issues (environmental, social and governance) in our investment strategies. We have also signed the Principles of Responsible Investment (PRI) of the United Nations. That's why we are particularly attractive to investors who want to combine reliable returns with responsible engagement. We offer these customers a clear value proposition. 

Is investor demand for sustainable investments growing?

Yes indeed. We have noticed how investors’ investment objectives are often no longer based purely on returns. Issues such as the environment, social issues or the management of a company are becoming increasingly important. In addition, investors want to benefit from optimal risk assessment. We offer them sustainable and secure portfolio development with our investment strategy. 

Which investors does Swiss Life Asset Managers work with?

Our origins lie in managing funds generated by the Swiss Life Group's insurance business. Our investment philosophy is based on maintaining and increasing the assets entrusted to us. It is traditionally risk aware and oriented towards the long term.  

We target institutional clients, family offices and private clients in our core markets of Switzerland, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Our third-party assets under management came to CHF 111.8 billion on
31 December 2023. 

Our contact partners