UBS Becomes Bank for Juniors After First Wave of Kickouts
- UBS Group AG has ordered its junior investment bankers based in the United States to return to the office five days a week.
- The requirement specifically targets junior-level staff within the US investment banking division, ending previous flexible work arrangements for these employees.
- The return-to-office mandate follows a period of strategic evaluation regarding the bank's operational footprint in North America.
UBS Group AG has ordered its junior investment bankers based in the United States to return to the office five days a week. The mandate, issued on March 26, 2026, is part of the Swiss lender’s pursuit of an ambitious corporate strategy.
The requirement specifically targets junior-level staff within the US investment banking division, ending previous flexible work arrangements for these employees.
US Strategic Considerations
The return-to-office mandate follows a period of strategic evaluation regarding the bank’s operational footprint in North America. On September 14, 2025, reports indicated that UBS was considering moving its operations to the United States.
This potential relocation was reported as a response to proposals from the Swiss government concerning the implementation of new capital requirements.
Financial Exposures
While managing its US workforce and regulatory positioning, the bank has also addressed specific investment losses. On October 8, 2025, UBS announced it was examining the impact of the bankruptcy of First Brands on several of its investment funds.
The bank’s exposure to First Brands was reported to be more than $500 million.