The programme, which covers Southeast Asia, is an example of how banks work with the art world to connect with clients and support an area that many HNW and UHNW individuals are passionate about.

For the third year, UBS is supporting ART SG, an art fair in Singapore and Southeast Asia which runs from 17 to 19 January 2025. It is an example of the Swiss bank continuing to push its credentials in the art world. 

The programme features 106 galleries from 30 countries and territories, four large-scale, site-specific artworks, a film programme presented in collaboration with Bangkok Kunsthalle, and a talks programme with art world thought leaders, including Collecting as Practice curated by Aaron Cezar of the Delfina Foundation, and solo artist talks by Mandy El-Sayegh and Korakrit Arunanondchai. 

UBS, which is lead partner with ART SG, has also announced new commissioned artwork and an “Art for All” community project.

Like several of its peers, such as Deutsche Bank and Citigroup, UBS makes supportimg and advising on the collection of, and investment in fine art, as a way of connecting with clients. For example, UBS and the Art Basel global programme of art exhibitions is already an established part of the art scene. Each year, the bank and Art Basel issue a report on the art market.

Singapore is a buoyant market, UBS said. 

“The Art Basel and UBS Survey of Global Collecting 2024 reveals 97 per cent of Singapore HNW collectors were the most optimistic about the global art market and Singapore collectors ranked amongst the highest in favouring art fairs to purchase art works,” Jin Yee Young, co-head UBS Global Wealth Management Asia-Pacific and country head UBS Singapore, said. “As founding and lead partner of ART SG for the third consecutive year, we are delighted to provide this important platform to reinforce Singapore’s rising role in engaging art enthusiasts, collectors and the public across the region.”

ART SG will take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, with a VIP Preview on 16 January.

Photo – Left to right: Jin Yee Young, co-head UBS Global Wealth Management Asia-Pacific and country head UBS Singapore; Magnus Renfrew, co-founder, ART SG; and Shuyin Yang, fair director, ART SG next to "Untitled, ST DD23" by Mit Jai Inn. Image courtesy of UBS Singapore.