Company
History
Crescendo Partners has consistently ranked among the top 50 wealth management firms in Switzerland, becoming the go-to destination for international families looking to adopt the Endowment Philosophy for managing their wealth. Over the past two decades, the firm has built a strong reputation as a trusted advisor in the wealth management industry.
Founded in 2004 in Geneva by Douglas Kalen and the late Jacques Diwan, Crescendo Partners was established as an independent wealth manager. Before founding Crescendo, Mr. Diwan held prominent positions, including serving on the Executive Board of Bank Edmond de Rothschild and as an executive at Union Bancaire Privée. Throughout his career, Mr. Diwan was known for his expertise in integrating alternative investments and private market assets into multi-asset class portfolios, establishing himself as a pioneer in the field.
In 2022, Crescendo Partners expanded its capabilities by acquiring a license to manage collective investment funds, broadening its service offering to include additional investment opportunities.
As the firm celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024, Crescendo underwent a successful generational transition. Benjamin Diwan, the firm’s former COO, was appointed Co-Managing Partner alongside Douglas Kalen. This transition also saw the addition of two well-established families as new shareholders, who now serve as key advisors to the Managing Partners.
Today, under the leadership of Benjamin Diwan and Douglas Kalen, Crescendo Partners serves over 100 ultra-high-net-worth families, primarily based in Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. With its strong legacy, strategic shareholder backing, and extensive network, Crescendo provides clients with exclusive access to best-in-class investment opportunities and top-tier investment managers.
Team
Crescendo’s team, led by the Co-Managing Partners, is composed of 25 professionals who collectively ensure the firm delivers the service our families expect.
Our Institutional Partners
We work with Switzerland’s leading private banks, renowned for their strength and stability. By negotiating preferential terms, we ensure these partnerships deliver maximum value to our clients.
Through a limited power of attorney, Crescendo acts as the interface with custodians — simplifying account openings and ensuring seamless execution of investment strategies.
While families often focus heavily on choosing a bank, we believe the real difference comes from having the right investment strategy. That said, some banks are better suited to specific family profiles, and we are here to guide you toward the best fit.
Regulations & Affiliations
Crescendo Partners is licensed as a collective asset manager in accordance with the Swiss Financial Institutions Act (FinIA) and is directly supervised by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). As such, the company is authorized to manage both individual portfolios and investment funds. Terraxis SA serves as our FINMA-registered mediation organization.
As a regulated entity, Crescendo Partners undergoes annual audits conducted by Grant Thornton SA, the world’s 6th largest audit firm. The audit covers both financial and prudential aspects. Grant Thornton Switzerland is FINMA-approved and operates under the supervision of the Swiss state.
Crescendo Partners is a proud member of the Alliance of Swiss Wealth Managers (ASWM), a leading association comprising the largest wealth managers in Switzerland. The company is also actively involved in the Swiss Association of Wealth Managers (ASG), advocating for and representing the broader wealth management industry.