On 6 October 2026, Mercantil Bank (Schweiz) AG, through MBS Advisors, held its first event in Panama dedicated to external asset managers (EAMs). The Maito restaurant in Panama City hosted a luncheon and conference that brought together industry professionals in an informal setting, ideal for sharing perspectives, strengthening relationships and exploring new opportunities.

The event, which ran from midday until 3.00 pm, featured presentations by Ricardo Concha, an oil sector expert from Banco Mercantil Venezuela; Camilo Forero, CIO of Grupo Mercantil’s Asset & Wealth Management team; and Gian Castillero, a partner at ARIFA. Their presentations offered valuable insights into current developments in the oil sector and in Venezuela, Grupo Mercantil’s strategic vision for investment portfolios, and the implications of Panama’s new economic substance law, which is due to come into force in 2027.

The event was a great success for both attendees and organisers. The quality of the presentations and the enriching exchange of ideas made this first edition an opportunity to strengthen ties with the EAM community and address key issues relating to wealth management and the development of their businesses.

This inaugural event marks the start of a series of meetings that Mercantil Bank (Schweiz) AG, through MBS Advisors, will organise on a regular basis in Panama. This initiative reaffirms its commitment to supporting external wealth managers, fostering dialogue and building lasting relationships.