The ATRAM Group and Union Bank of the Philippines said Thursday they signed a strategic partnership after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) approved in April transactions leading to a proposed merger of their trust entities.
The two parties announced in November 2024 that UnionBank would acquire a 27.5-percent ownership stake in ATR Asset Management Inc. (AAMI), while AAMI would simultaneously acquire 100 percent of UnionBank’s trust subsidiary, UnionBank Investment Management and Trust Corporation (UBIMTC).
The transactions will ultimately lead to the merger of AAMI’s trust subsidiary, ATRAM Trust Corp (ATC), and UBIMTC, forming what they said would be the fourth-largest private asset management firm in the Philippines.
UnionBank and ATRAM, a leader in Philippine asset management, said the partnership aims to pioneer the next generation of investment solutions.
They said combining UnionBank’s digital capabilities and reach with ATRAM’s investment expertise would make wealth management more personalized, accessible, and aligned with clients’ long-term financial goals.
“This milestone marks a pivotal step for UnionBank as we combine our digital leadership with ATRAM’s investment expertise to create smarter, more accessible wealth solutions for Filipinos. Together, we’re redefining asset management through digital-first innovation,” said UnionBank president and chief executive Ana Maria Aboitiz Delgado in a statement.
ATRAM Group chief executive Michael Ferrer echoed this. “With UnionBank, we’re powering next-generation world-class digital investment solutions that grow client wealth. By leveraging digital innovations with our investment expertise, we are set to drive long-term financial growth and raise industry standards,” he said.
The partnership, they said, ushers in a new era of asset and wealth management in the Philippines defined by innovation, digital leadership and client empowerment, aiming to democratize investing and expand financial possibilities for Filipinos.
