Meeting a New Bank for Investment: Here's What to Ask and How to Prepare

When you're introduced to a new private bank or investment firm, your excitement about new opportunities should be matched by systematic and informed preparation.

This article outlines what every investor should do before such a meeting and what questions to ask to ensure their financial interests are protected.

Before the Meeting: What You Need to Prepare

1. Clarify Your Financial Profile

• Net worth, income sources, liabilities

• Liquidity needs and investment time horizon

2. Define Your Investment Objectives

• Are you targeting capital growth, income, or wealth preservation?

3. Know Your Risk Tolerance

• How much risk are you comfortable taking, and why?

4. Collect Relevant Documents

• Identification, tax residency proof, and past investment statements (if available)

5. Be Aware of Your Preferences

• Currency exposure (HUF, EUR, USD)? ESG concerns?

• Any sectors or products you want to avoid?

6. Review Your Current Portfolio

• What do you already own? What fees are you currently paying?

  
  

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What to Ask the Bank or Investment Advisor

Use these questions to uncover the full picture:

1. What kind of investment product are you proposing? (Structured note, bond, equity fund, etc.)

2. What is the expected return, and what are the risks?

3. Is there any capital guarantee or protection mechanism?

4. What is the investment horizon and liquidity? (How long is your money locked in?)

5. What fees apply?

• Account maintenance

• Transaction fees

• Portfolio management and advisory fees

• Performance or success fees

6. What benchmark is used to calculate the performance fee?

7. What protections exist if the bank or issuer defaults? (Investor protection schemes or deposit guarantees?)

8. What happens if I want to exit early or transfer the assets?

9. How often will I receive portfolio updates and in what format?

10. Why is this product suitable for my financial profile? 

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Final Tip

Request the latest Kondíciós Lista (fee schedule) and the Key Information Document (KID) for any proposed investment. A transparent provider will always be ready to walk you through the fine print.

Conclusion

Meeting a new bank for investment can open doors to diversification and personalised service, but only if you walk in with the right questions and a clear understanding of your goals. Use this guide as your conversation framework, and always prioritise transparency over promises.

Need help preparing for a bank meeting or reviewing an investment proposal? Our trainings help clients make informed, objective decisions every day.