Third-Generation Family Office, Switzerland

Partner Profile

Location: Zurich, Switzerland 
Industry: Multi-generational Family Office
Investment Focus: Equities, Real Estate, and Art

A third-generation family office based in Zurich sought to diversify its investment portfolio by entering the art market. While they had extensive experience in traditional asset classes, they lacked the specialised expertise to confidently navigate art investment.

The Challenge

Despite their interest in the art market, the family office faced significant concerns:

Authentication Risks – Ensuring artworks were genuine and legally sound.
Valuation & Pricing – Avoiding overpaying or acquiring assets with unstable value.
Market Knowledge – Lacking insight into key players, market trends, and investment potential.

They needed a trusted partner to guide them through the complexities of art investment while mitigating risks.

Zurani’s Tailored Solution

1. Market Education

Bespoke education sessions for the investment team, covering:

Art market fundamentals, including valuation and liquidity.
Major players, investment trends, and historical performance.
Key risk factors and mitigation strategies.

2. Access to Trusted Networks

Leveraged Zurani’s global connections to provide access to verified, high-quality artworks.
Connected the family office with renowned galleries, auction houses, and private collectors.

3. Due Diligence & Acquisition Strategy

Conducted independent authentication and provenance research for potential acquisitions.
Performed comparative market analysis to benchmark prices and avoid overpayment.
Ensured each piece aligned with investment objectives and market trends.

4. Long-Term Portfolio Management

Designed a comprehensive art portfolio strategy, including:

Storage & Conservation – Ensuring the artworks remain in pristine condition.
Insurance & Risk Management – Protecting investments from unforeseen losses.
Market Monitoring – Regular valuations to assess appreciation potential.

The Outcome

Acquired Six Blue-Chip Artworks, including pieces by:

Andy Warhol
Cy Twombly
Joan Mitchell

The acquisitions strengthened their diversification strategy while aligning with their long-term investment objectives. Zurani’s expertise ensured that each purchase had strong market potential and was strategically positioned for future appreciation.

Client Testimonial

“Zurani expertly guided us through every step of the process with remarkable precision and complete transparency. Their wealth of knowledge and experience transformed what initially seemed like a daunting journey into an advantageous and enriching experience. Throughout our collaboration, we gained valuable insights and developed a deeper understanding of the strategic decisions made to curate the artworks now featured in our portfolio. We feel renewed confidence knowing that this segment of our portfolio is well-positioned for future growth. We appreciate the dedication and hard work that Zurani invested in this process, and we are excited to see how their efforts will continue to illuminate our path as we strengthen and expand our ongoing relationship.”

Chief Investment Officer, December 2024