VÚB launches a new network of financial advisors

Slovakia is one of the first countries within the Intesa Sanpaolo Group where a new network of financial advisors, inspired by the successful Fideuram model, has already begun operating. Together with Hungary, this marks a new phase in the development of personalized financial intermediation within the Intesa Sanpaolo Group’s international banking network.

The new model has so far been launched in Slovakia and Hungary, but it will gradually expand to other countries: Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Romania, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Egypt. The goal is to have approximately 1,200 financial advisors and 2,500 relationship managers serving up to about 1 million clients.

With the launch of this unique advisory model, Intesa Sanpaolo is entering a new phase of international development in Wealth Management & Protection. As part of the “Bank on the right advice” campaign, it is introducing a new, unique approach in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as in Egypt, based on personalized recommendations, long-term customer relationships, and greater flexibility. This is the next step in the 2026–2029 business plan presented by Intesa Sanpaolo CEO Carlo Messina.

It draws on the experience and expertise of Fideuram, which introduced a modern financial advisory model in Italy and has been a leader in asset management and private banking for more than 50 years. It will rely on advanced technological platforms, such as BlackRock’s Aladdin Wealth, and sophisticated risk analysis models to effectively support clients across various market conditions.

Financial advisors will provide services that are even better tailored to clients’ needs, while also emphasizing the building of long-term relationships. In doing so, they will leverage local expertise combined with the strength of the large international Intesa Sanpaolo Group. The service offering will include innovative solutions, supported by the expertise of the Group’s product companies—including Eurizon and Intesa Sanpaolo Assicurazioni—as well as strategic partnerships with leading international players in asset management and insurance.

Paola Papanicolaou, Chief of Intesa Sanpaolo’s International Banks Division: “The launch of the financial advisor network represents another step forward in the strategic development of our international banks. At the same time, it strengthens their role as a driving force for the Group’s growth outside Italy. This path was recently supported by the ‘Bank on the right advice’ campaign, which reaffirms Intesa Sanpaolo’s leading position in wealth management and asset protection, even in foreign markets, thanks to close collaboration with the divisions led by Tommaso Corcos. “Our goal is to further enhance the level of service and personalization in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as in Egypt, by leveraging the expertise of local distribution networks and supporting clients in their financial decisions as a trusted partner capable of providing clear, responsible, and tailored advice.”