
- UBS ends contract with BlackRock’s Aladdin.
- Transition aims to save $50–100 million annually.
- Move increases internal control and scalability.
The decision to migrate asset management responsibilities from BlackRock’s Aladdin platform to UBS’s own systems marks a significant operational shift. Initially acquired through the Credit Suisse takeover, the transition is projected to finish by the end of 2025.
Several financial and strategic benefits drive this change. UBS anticipates savings between $50–100 million annually due to decreased licensing fees and IT expenses. This strategic move emphasizes controlling scales and increasing scalability. Sergio Ermotti, CEO, UBS Group AG, stated, “By migrating our asset management functions in-house, we expect to save between $50–100 million annually in licensing fees and IT costs.” – Bloomberg
The impact on the traditional financial sector includes enhanced internal control and streamlined operations. The decision does not involve direct involvement with blockchain or DeFi protocols, maintaining its focus on traditional asset management.
No substantial regulatory or institutional responses have emerged regarding this change. No new guidance has been issued by regulatory entities highlighting the broader non-impact on the crypto or DeFi domains. The transition aligns UBS with other large asset managers developing proprietary systems.
Analysts project potential long-term financial benefits from the move. Historical trends suggest improved oversight and cost reductions, aligning with past migrations like those by State Street. This transition enables greater control over operations and is anticipated to yield financial efficiencies.