DBS unveils private equity programme for ultra-rich patrons

The programme is a rarity for Asian banks.

Private equity and venture capital deals are in their nascent stage in the Asian region, and DBS hopes to jumpstart its boom by the introduction of its new introducer model programme.

According to a press release by DBS, the bank will introduce direct investment deals to its ultra-high-net-worth-clients, acting as an introduces by informing interested clients of relevant investment deals.

Clients can then make the decision to bite on the deal and proceed to invest directly in the business, DBS says.

“With the introduction of “PE Access”, DBS also hopes to help spur the growth of private equity and venture capital deals in Asia. In 2014, 32% of the world’s GDP was generated in Asia, up from 26% in 2000, yet Asia still accounts for a substantially smaller portion of private equity and venture capital investment globally,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, DBS’ extensive pan-Asian network provides the perfect avenue for this kind of programme.

“On average, the bank comes across some 20 to 30 potential investment deals per month. Available to clients with net worth of SGD50 million and above and with a minimum deal size of SGD5 million, “PE Access” is tailored for investors who seek alternative forms of investment, prefer to have direct access to the businesses they are investing in, and have a higher risk appetite,” the statement added.