The Principality of Liechtenstein, nestled between Switzerland and Austria, is the sixth smallest country in the world, but it has managed to become one of the richest nations. Liechtenstein was elevated to the status of an imperial principality in 1719. It achieved sovereignty in 1806 when the Confederation of the Rhine was founded. Having abolished its own army in 1868, the Principality of Liechtenstein survived the turmoil of both World Wars and is today one of only five debt-free states around the globe. Ratings agency S&P Global reaffirmed the top AAA rating of Liechtenstein with a stable outlook, making it one of just 10 countries in the world to receive this top rating.
Liechtenstein occupies an area of only 160 square kilometers and has a population of 39000 people, yet it has a GDP per capita that is more than double that of the United States. The Princely Family of Liechtenstein, which reigns over the country, is one of the oldest noble houses in Europe. Having acquired the territory which would become Liechtenstein in 1719, the Princely Family has continuously presided over the country into modern times.
Today, the Principality of Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy and, in addition to heading the country, the Princely Family pursues a wide range of interests, from owning the world’s largest private collection of major European artworks to agriculture and forestry. Although Liechtenstein may be associated with its strengths in manufacturing, an attractive alpine climate, and collectable postage stamps, it is in the world of finance that the Principality shines. Known for its stability and security, the country’s financial system is a foundation for Liechtenstein’s success, attracting institutions with its professional, resourceful and businessfriendly characteristics.
One secret behind the country’s financial acumen is the strong foresight and guidance of its hereditary rulers. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the success of LGT Group, the family office of the Princely House of Liechtenstein and the largest global private banking and asset management group to be owned by an entrepreneurial family.
LGT is a family-run enterprise with Prince Max von und zu Liechtenstein, the second son of the nation’s ruler, Prince Hans-Adam II, serving as Chairman, and Olivier de Perregaux as the CEO. The ownership by the Princely Family ensures that traditional values like reliability, respect, and integrity are deeply ingrained in LGT’s corporate culture.
As a testament to its success, LGT Group has grown from a small presence in Liechtenstein to 30 locations worldwide. LGT Private Banking, the private wealth management arm of LGT Group, adheres to traditional values, while providing bespoke and innovative investment advice and wealth planning solutions to high and ultrahigh net worth clients around the world. Today, LGT has over 1800 Asia Pacific based employees, with offices in UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, Australia, and India.
In 2024, LGT was ranked among the top 6 private banks in Asia. LGT’s evolution in Asia Pacific, like the history of Liechtenstein, is rooted in principles such as a long-term commitment, vision and innovation and sustainability.
