UBS Successfully Integrates Credit Suisse, Says IT Chief

UBS's Integration Journey with Credit Suisse

UBS's ambitious integration of Credit Suisse's client base and data into its own systems is reportedly progressing well, with their technology chief stating the project is 'bang on target' following a successful test. According to Mike Dargan, UBS's Group Chief Operations and Technology Officer, the integration reached a significant milestone after a successful test involving clients from Hong Kong and Singapore.

Successful Test Migration

During September, UBS executed a comprehensive test, migrating hundreds of clients with varying complexities. Dargan expressed satisfaction with the results, noting that the atmosphere during the test was one of joy and accomplishment. The entire team was elated, and some were moved to tears as the tests confirmed they were on the right track.

Strategic Focus on IT Integration

CEO Sergio Ermotti spotlighted the digital transition as one of the primary challenges confronting UBS as it navigates the complex integration of its newly acquired rival’s operations. He has emphasized that any setbacks in the IT integration could adversely impact the expected cost savings the bank has outlined.

Phased Client Migration Plan

The integration plan includes a phased approach, beginning with clients booked in Luxembourg and Hong Kong, followed by clients in Singapore and additional locations slated for migration in 2024 and beyond. Overall, UBS aims to migrate approximately 1.3 million clients, marking this effort as a landmark data migration associated with mergers and acquisitions in the financial services sector.

Handling Massive Data Transfers

The sheer volume of data is staggering, with UBS tasked with migrating 110 petabytes from Credit Suisse. To put this into perspective, each petabyte is equivalent to 500 billion pages of printed text—a capacity that would fill 20 million large filing cabinets. The complexities of this migration also include managing around 3,000 applications and a multitude of servers and data centers used by Credit Suisse.

Progress and Future Steps

So far, UBS has successfully decommissioned approximately 560 applications, released 13 petabytes of data, and scaled down its server count by about 40,000, affirming they are ahead of schedule regarding server reduction. Dargan, overseeing around 40,000 staff members, revealed strategic plans to minimize the bank's reliance on external contractors in technology and operations. This change will allow UBS to maintain a higher proportion of Credit Suisse's permanent employees and boost internal tech and operations staff to 85% from the current 60%.

Impact on Workforce and Future Outlook

As of mid-year, UBS had around 110,000 employees. However, reports suggest that following the completion of the integration in 2026, the total headcount may decrease to approximately 90,000. Nonetheless, this restructuring is seen as part of the ongoing adaptation process that accompanies such substantial corporate integrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is UBS’s current status with the Credit Suisse integration?

UBS reports that the integration is on target following a successful test migration, indicating positive progress.

What challenges is UBS facing during the integration?

The complexity of data migration and the scale of operations present significant challenges for UBS.

How many clients will UBS migrate from Credit Suisse?

UBS plans to migrate approximately 1.3 million clients as part of the integration process.

What measures is UBS taking regarding its workforce?

UBS aims to reduce reliance on external contractors and maintain a higher proportion of internal staff through the integration process.

When is UBS expected to complete the integration?

The integration is anticipated to be completed by 2026, potentially reducing total headcount significantly.

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