300 years of banking tradition

Fortis Private Banking tradition dates back to the early 18th century, when Gregorius Mees set up as a broker of bills of exchange and insurance in Rotterdam in 1720. After years of international expansion, his company merged with JL Pierson’s company operating since mid-19th century thus creating MeesPierson. It was acquired by Fortis in 1997 to strengthen its cross-border private banking activities. Other acquisitions, such as Banque Generale du Luxembourg in 1997 and Dryden Wealth Management in 2004 followed, through which Fortis Private Banking has strengthened its position as a major international player in the private banking sector.

From the beginning of 2005, all MeesPierson services have been offered under Fortis brand. Currently Fortis has over EUR 81 billion assets under management in 20 countries.

Fortis Private Banking was ranked 15th among the best global private bankers
by Euromoney (January 2007).