Some people follow the well-trodden path. Others carve out entirely new ones.

In honor of Robert Vrijhof’s 70th birthday, we’re looking back at the bold vision that launched WHVP over three decades ago.

In 1991, as the world emerged from the Cold War and new financial frontiers were opening up, Robert Vrijhof stood at a unique crossroads. With years of experience in Swiss private banking, he had seen firsthand the strengths of the global financial system. And he had a growing conviction that American investors—entrepreneurs, business owners, retirees—were increasingly exposed to economic forces that were beyond their control. One of the most pressing concerns he identified? The long-term deterioration of the U.S. dollar.

While most firms focused on domestic solutions, Robert envisioned something different: a way to help Americans protect their wealth internationally. A path toward greater stability, privacy, and independence—through the trusted strength of the Swiss financial system.

And so, WHVP was born. A boutique firm with a simple but powerful mission: To safeguard the wealth of Americans by offering access to international diversification, discreet financial protection, and peace of mind that lasts through generations.

From Vision to Reality

WHVP was never meant to be a massive institution. It was always meant to be personal. Clients wouldn’t be passed around departments or sold generic investment packages. They’d be known by name. Listened to. Advised with care. Over time, as the world became more volatile—and financial institutions became more complex and impersonal—that simple approach became a lifeline for many.

By the time WHVP officially registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 2011, the firm had already been serving American clients for two decades. But this step marked a turning point: It formalized WHVP’s dedication to U.S. citizens and affirmed its commitment to doing things the right way—responsibly, transparently, and in full alignment with the needs of its clients.

A New Generation, A Continued Calling

In 2020, a new chapter began. Robert stepped back from day-to-day operations and passed the leadership torch to the second generation: Jamie Vrijhof-Droese and Urs Vrijhof-Droese. Both had been immersed in the business for years. And both shared a clear vision for the future—one that honored WHVP’s roots while responding to the needs of today’s globally minded families.

They didn’t reinvent the wheel. They didn’t need to. Instead, they evolved the WHVP experience.

Today, education and accessibility are at the heart of what we do. From regularly traveling across the U.S. for conferences and private client meetings, to creating podcasts, webinars, and articles that demystify offshore banking—Jamie, Urs, and the team are committed to making Swiss wealth management approachable, human, and real.

We believe that the best financial conversations happen face-to-face, and we make it a priority to show up—in person and online. Whether it’s a new client looking to diversify internationally for the first time, or a long-term partner reviewing multi-generational strategies, our goal is the same: Empowerment through clarity, service through relationship.

Built by Family, Sustained by Loyalty

WHVP is proud to be a family company. But that doesn’t stop at ownership—it extends to our team.

Over the decades, we’ve been fortunate to work alongside a group of deeply loyal employees, several of whom have been with us for decades. Their dedication and consistency have been instrumental in creating the stability and personal care that our clients experience year after year. In an industry known for turnover and constant change, our team’s longevity is a rare and valuable strength.

Clients aren’t just supported by a firm—they’re supported by people who have been in the room for decades, who know the history of every account, and who understand the importance of continuity when it comes to protecting something as personal as wealth.

A Milestone of Maturity

In 2023, WHVP proudly received its license from FINMA, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority. While we had long operated at the highest regulatory standards, this formal recognition marks a significant moment in our evolution.

It’s a symbol of the integrity and professionalism that has defined WHVP from day one—and a promise that we are here for the long run.

A Conversation with Our Founder

Though Robert no longer plays a formal role at WHVP, his presence is still felt in everything we do. His values—discipline, humility, long-term thinking, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people we serve—remain at the heart of our firm.

To celebrate his 70th birthday, we sat down with him to talk about the early days of WHVP, what he saw coming that others didn’t, and what he hopes for the future of the business he built. It’s a reflection on risk, resilience, and doing the right thing—even when it isn’t easy.

Watch the full podcast episode here:

Looking Forward, Staying Grounded

As we reflect on Robert’s journey and the path WHVP has taken, we’re filled with both gratitude and purpose. The world continues to change—currencies shift, markets fluctuate, geopolitical tensions rise—but the fundamentals of what we offer remain as relevant as ever.

Real relationships. Independent advice. Personalized service.

And above all, the commitment to helping Americans preserve what they’ve worked hard to build.

Some companies aim to disrupt. Others aim to last. We’re proud to be the latter.

Here’s to Robert—70 years young, and a legacy that’s only just beginning its next chapter.