UBS Eyes U.S. Move as Swiss Rules Tighten

- UBS explores relocating to the U.S. amid $26 billion Swiss capital push. - Trump's administration involved; U.S. acquisitions under review. Swiss banking giant UBS is considering a move to the United States in response to stringent new capital regulations from Swiss authorities that could require the bank to increase its capital buffer by $26 billion. UBS deems this requirement disproportionate and inconsistent with global norms. As a result, the potential relocation highlights the growing tension between regulatory frameworks and the operational strategies of major multinational banks. UBS Chairman Colm Kelleher and CEO Sergio Ermotti have reportedly engaged with members of the Trump administration to evaluate the feasibility of such a relocation. According to reports from the New York Post and Cryptopolitan on September 14, 2025, these discussions aim to address the implications of a U.S.-based headquarters. The proposed capital requirements stem from UBS's 2023 acquisition of Credit Suisse, a deal brokered by the Swiss government that has since placed the bank under tougher regulatory scrutiny. Meanwhile, UBS is exploring strategic mergers and acquisitions in the U.S. to deepen its market presence, with industry insiders pointing to mid-tier players like PNC Financial and Bank of New York as potential targets. A move to the U.S. could offer UBS regulatory benefits, including an exemption from the deposit cap for domestic institutions, which would facilitate swifter growth in its American operations. While no conclusions have been reached, high-level discussions with both Swiss and U.S. officials signal that UBS is seriously considering the transition. To date, neither UBS nor representatives from the U.S. Treasury have officially commented on the potential move.