For financial service providers such as wealth managers and asset managers, regulatory compliance isn’t just a back-office concern—it extends to their websites and online communication. A professional web presence must meet strict data protection, financial, and legal requirements in both Switzerland and the EU.
A This article breaks down what you need to consider to make your website both compliant and client-friendly.
1. Data Protection: GDPR & the Swiss Data Protection Act
Transparency is mandatory. If you collect personal data—whether via contact forms or analytics tools—you need to clearly communicate this to your users.
- Cookie Banners: Only essential cookies may be loaded without consent. All tracking, analytics, and marketing cookies require an explicit opt-in.
- Privacy Policy: You must list all tools that collect data—Google Analytics, newsletter services, embedded YouTube videos, etc.—in a transparent and understandable way.
- Forms: Forms must use SSL encryption. For newsletters, a double opt-in is required. Personal data must never be transmitted unencrypted.
2. MiFID II & FIDLEG: Content Must Be Targeted and Clear
Your website must distinguish clearly between professional and retail investors.
- Audience Segmentation: Clearly differentiate offerings for professional investors vs. private clients.
- Disclaimers: Any performance-related content or market commentary must include clear legal disclaimers. Some providers even use an “Investor Gate” to segment users before they access sensitive content.
- Access Restrictions: Pre-entry country or investor-type selection is often used to comply with local regulations.
3. Legal Disclosures & Imprint
A well-structured legal section builds trust and ensures compliance.
- Corporate Details: Include your company name, address, VAT number, and regulatory status (e.g., FINMA affiliation or SRO membership).
- Contact Info: Full contact details must be clearly listed, including phone and email.
4. Hosting & Data Handling
Even your technical setup needs to meet compliance standards.
- Server Location: Ideally within Switzerland or the EU. Many tools like Webflow offer EU hosting via AWS.
- Third-Party Services: Google Fonts, YouTube, and analytics tools must be actively accepted by users and properly documented in your privacy policy.
5. Content & Communication Style
Stay on the safe side by avoiding content that could be interpreted as personal advice.
- No Advisory Language: Avoid wording that could be seen as investment advice. Use clear disclaimers like “This does not constitute personal investment advice.”
- Archiving Obligations: Depending on your regulator, some content (e.g., market updates or research insights) may need to be archived for compliance purposes.
Additional Considerations for Asset Managers
If your firm offers investment funds or tailored financial products, there are even more layers to consider:
6. Investor Targeting & Access Control
- Clear labeling of content meant for professional investors
- Use of Investor Gates or login walls to restrict fund-related content
- Optional: Geo-blocking based on IP address for regional compliance
7. Product Disclaimers
Any mention of products, strategies, or performance should always be accompanied by proper legal disclaimers.
8. Regulatory Transparency
Clearly state your regulatory affiliation (e.g., FINMA, SRO) in your imprint or footer.
Conclusion: Compliance Starts with the Website
A modern financial website isn’t just about sleek design—it must be built on a foundation of legal and technical compliance. At eDesigns, we help wealth managers, banks, and asset managers design websites that comply with regulations and convert visitors into clients.
👉 Get in touch for a free compliance check of your current website. We’ll help you spot risks—and opportunities.
