Discussions around private markets have never been more prominent in Switzerland’s financial sector. At the Swiss Private Equity & Corporate Finance Association (SECA), this trend feels like validation. According to SECA President Bernd Pfister, there’s much more potential to unlock—and he has the numbers to prove it.If you plan to discuss private markets with Bernd Pfister, you’ll need plenty of time. Private markets are his passion, and few can match his knowledge of the industry. Over the past 30 years, Pfister has been involved in more than 150 transactions in various roles. He has also held over 65 board mandates at both public and private companies and is currently active on 18 boards.
Pfister has co-founded several asset management firms, including Invision Private Equity, Aureus Private Equity, Mach Continuations, and Paros Capital, where he currently serves as Managing Director.
A Growing IndustryIt’s no surprise that Pfister was appointed SECA President 17 years ago. Under his leadership, SECA—the voice of Switzerland’s private equity, venture capital, and corporate finance industries—has grown steadily, now boasting around 600 members. However Pfister believes there’s still room to grow: «The industry will continue to expand in the coming years,» he says.
Easier Entry into Private MarketsSeveral factors contribute to this optimism. The bond market has struggled since the end of the low-interest-rate era, public markets are shrinking globally, many firms are opting out of stock markets, and private equity is performing well with solid returns. Entry into private markets has also become more accessible, though fundraising remains challenging.
«In Switzerland, for example, an additional CHF 1 to 2 billion could easily be invested in venture capital,» says Pfister, emphasizing the untapped potential.
Pfister is particularly focused on the younger generation, who he finds to be open-minded and broadly interested. «We might still be too anchored in the past,» he notes, stressing the importance of adapting to new perspectives.
Investing in the Next GenerationSECA is making targeted efforts to nurture young talent. The association has a dedicated group for industry representatives under 40 and offers specialized training programs. «You don’t need to go all the way to Harvard,» Pfister says.
However, one thing SECA doesn’t provide is investment advice. «That’s a principle we’ve committed to, and we strictly adhere to it,» Pfister emphasizes.
