The Syz Group is undertaking a major overhaul of its alternative investments business. The Geneva-based banking group is repositioning Syz Capital as a standalone private equity platform. At the same time, David Weintraub has been appointed as the new CEO of Syz Capital. His appointment remains subject to approval by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority Finma.
As part of the realignment, Syz Capital’s previously broader business activities are also being separated. Alongside the new focus on private equity, the hedge fund business will be integrated into Bank Syz, while the Legal Assets division will become independent through a management buyout.
Two Pillars in Private Equity
Going forward, Syz Capital will focus exclusively on private equity. The company will pursue two strategies: firstly, the platform will invest directly in small and medium-sized European B2B companies.
Secondly, Syz Capital operates a primary private equity programme. Through specialised managers, it aims to provide investors with access to a diversified portfolio of private equity investments.
“The clear focus on private equity enables us to build specifically on our existing strengths, create sustainable added value for our clients and capture attractive long-term growth opportunities,” Eric Syz, CEO of the Syz Group, is quoted as saying in the announcement.
New CEO Joins from Lego Investment Holding Company
CEO-designate David Weintraub joins from KIRKBI, the private investment holding company behind the Lego Group. There, he served as Investment Director, focusing on direct investments, transactions and value creation across portfolio companies. His primary focus was on technology-enabled sectors in Europe.
Prior to that, Weintraub worked in investment banking at Alantra, where he advised companies and financial investors on M&A transactions.
Christoph Raninger, who led Syz Capital during the transition period, will remain Group CFO of the Syz Group.
Hedge Funds Move to Bank Syz
The reorganisation also includes the hedge fund business, which will be integrated directly into Bank Syz. The group aims to bring its investment expertise in this area closer to clients while expanding the bank’s offering in alternative investments.
The changes are even more significant for the Legal Assets division, which will be fully separated from the group.
Management Buyout of Legal Assets
The division’s founder, Olivier Maurice, will take over Legal Assets through a management buyout. The business will continue to operate independently under the name Hykra Capital SA.
Maurice and his existing team will move to the new company, where they will continue to manage the existing investment strategies. At the same time, Hykra Capital is expected to maintain close ties with the Syz Group.
The Syz Group celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026 and, in addition to Geneva, has a presence in Zurich, Pfäffikon, Lugano, Locarno, Istanbul and Johannesburg.