The Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) and UBS have renewed their long-standing partnership, marking the continuation of a relationship that transcends traditional sponsorship. The new agreement, signed by YCM Managing Director and General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri and UBS Monaco, Spain, and Portugal Country Head Alejandro Velez, solidifies UBS as the exclusive wealth management partner of the Monaco-based yacht club. This partnership, which spans over three decades, has evolved into a significant strategic alliance focused on yachting, innovation, and sustainability.
UBS’s involvement with YCM dates back to the 1990s when its predecessor, Credit Suisse, supported the Primo Cup-Trophée Credit Suisse. Since then, the collaboration has strengthened, not only through sponsorship of competitive sailing events but also with efforts to advance marine sustainability. In 2000, with the return of the America’s Cup to Europe, the partnership entered a new phase, aligning the two organizations in their commitment to promoting elite sailing. This was further highlighted by the establishment of the YCM Awards – Trophée UBS, which honors outstanding sailing members.
In recent years, the partnership has expanded internationally and embraced a forward-thinking approach to yachting innovation. UBS has been a major supporter of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, a unique event that serves as a laboratory for clean propulsion technologies. The bank has also contributed to the development of the SEA Index, a tool designed to measure the CO2 emissions of yachts, helping owners and builders make more sustainable choices.
Moreover, UBS has played a crucial role in preserving Monaco’s maritime heritage, supporting events such as Monaco Classic Week, which celebrates the elegance of historic boats. These initiatives align with the broader mission of the Yacht Club de Monaco, which, under the leadership of HSH Prince Albert II, serves not only its 2,500 members but also plays an active role in promoting the Principality on the global stage. The YCM’s commitment to advancing the vision of ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ finds a natural ally in UBS, known for its expertise in global finance and dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation.
“This collaboration demonstrates our shared desire to continuously raise the standards of excellence in the yachting world,” said d’Alessandri. Velez echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in continuing to be part of YCM’s history and a shared ambition to explore new development opportunities.
UBS, with a global presence in over 56 countries and more than USD 5 trillion in assets under management, strengthens its strategic role in Monaco’s vision for the future of yachting—where a passion for the sea, environmental responsibility, and forward-thinking innovation converge.
