In a significant move for the Italian banking sector, Gianluca Piacenti, a prominent private banker with a portfolio exceeding one billion euros, has joined Fideuram, a division of Intesa Sanpaolo. Piacenti, who brings over two decades of experience in the financial services and private banking industry, will be based in Fideuram's Rome office located on Via del Corso, working under the coordination of area manager Sergio Vicini.
Before his arrival at Fideuram, Piacenti spent five years leading the private division for the Central South region at UBS, where he coordinated a team of ten professionals dedicated to high-end private clients. His tenure at UBS was marked by a focus on providing tailored financial solutions to affluent clients, a skill set that will serve him well in his new role.
In 2014, Piacenti transitioned to Banca Esperia, which was then the private bank of Mediobanca and Banca Mediolanum, where he held the position of managing director for the Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWI) segment. This experience further solidified his reputation as a key player in the private banking landscape, specializing in assisting entrepreneurs with strategic operations and wealth management.
Fideuram's recruitment of Piacenti is part of a broader strategy to enhance its wealth management division, which has seen a remarkable influx of talent. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the group welcomed over 150 financial advisors and private bankers. This recruitment drive aligns with the company's ongoing efforts to strengthen its position in the market and respond to the growing demand for personalized financial services.
According to data from Anasf, only 3% of Italian advisors manage assets exceeding 100 million euros, highlighting the significance of Piacenti's arrival and the substantial assets he brings with him. His expertise in managing UHNWI clients will be invaluable as Fideuram continues to expand its offerings and cater to the needs of its wealthiest clientele.
Piacenti's role at Fideuram will involve working closely with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, employing a service model akin to that of family offices. This approach is designed to provide comprehensive support for clients navigating complex financial landscapes, particularly those involved in significant liquidity events or strategic planning.
Carlo Messina, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo, emphasized the importance of Fideuram as a destination for top banking talent during a recent financial results presentation. He stated, "Fideuram is a safe haven for many Italian bankers, as demonstrated by the recent developments in the market." This sentiment underscores the competitive nature of the private banking sector in Italy and the strategic moves being made by institutions like Fideuram to attract and retain top professionals.
As Fideuram continues to grow its assets under management, which totaled over 394 billion euros as of December 31, 2024, the addition of Piacenti is expected to bolster the firm's capabilities in serving its affluent clientele. His background in strategic planning and collaboration with leading financial institutions positions him as a key asset in navigating the complexities of wealth management.
With Piacenti on board, Fideuram aims to enhance its reputation as a premier provider of private banking services, offering clients a blend of personalized attention and expert financial guidance. As the market evolves, the firm is poised to adapt and thrive, leveraging the expertise of seasoned professionals like Piacenti to meet the demands of an increasingly sophisticated clientele.
In conclusion, Gianluca Piacenti's recruitment marks a pivotal moment for Fideuram and the broader Italian banking landscape. His extensive experience and proven track record in private banking will undoubtedly contribute to the firm's ongoing success and its commitment to delivering exceptional service to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
