Since 1990, Newtone Associates organises the "Groupe de Réflexion Bancaire", literally, "Banking Reflection Group" at Mère Royaume in Geneva. This event gathers operational and IT directors and managers of 20 private banks active in the Romandie region.

Every second month, participants debate over current business and managerial needs. Four times a year, they meet to discuss banking related topics, followed by a dinner at Mère Royaume. The other 2 sessions are dedicated to IT topics.

These meetings aim at:

• Sharing experiences and ideas on defined topics;
• Reviewing and communicating on best practices.

Event structure:

• Newtone Associates defines, jointly with the participants, the theme of the meeting. A Newtone Associates partner leads the evening with the prompt participation of external guests when appropriate.

Some topics covered in 2008 :

• Logistics and set-up to support Front Office;
• New technologies: intelligence and developments;
• Internal organisation : how should it be integrated within the corporate structure;
• Banking logistics and remuneration policy;
• Use of internet in the private bank.

Some topics covered in 2009 :

• Electronic file management;
• The liquidity issue of Hedge Funds;
• Outsourcing : testimonial of one of the participants;
• Reporting in the private banks;
• Review of organisations following  FINMA 2009/1;
• VMWare and server centralisation;
• New banking platform: process and risks.