Bonus Season 2025: Ideal Cars for 10 Types of Bankers

Bonus Season 2025: Ideal Cars for 10 Types of Bankers

The financial industry may be changing, but one thing remains the same: nothing celebrates a good bonus like the right set of wheels. Whether you’re crypto-rich or sustainably modest, there’s a current model with your name on it.

The role of the automobile in society has become more ambivalent. Among many finance professionals, the passion for cars has faded, too — a shift illustrated by the contrast at the top of the Swiss National Bank: former president Thomas Jordan was known for his imposing white Cadillac Escalade, while his successor, Martin Schlegel, now commutes by bicycle.

And yet, in key corners of the industry — from private banking to asset management and tech-savvy quant desks — cars still hold a special place. They remain an expression of personality, position, and occasionally rebellion.

Which is why finews.asia once again presents ten current models tailored to ten distinct banker archetypes. Whether you're on a winning streak, reinventing yourself, or simply maintaining a well-honed mystique, here are our picks for 2025.

1. For the Big Bank Merger Beneficiary

Power and elegance. (Image: Courtesy)

In the high-stakes world of banking, mergers can be a game-changer, elevating careers and fortunes overnight. For those who have navigated the UBS' takeover of Credit Suisse with finesse, the BMW M8 Competition Cabrio (see finews.ch's detailed test report, article in German) stands as a symbol of their newfound stature. This luxury sports car exudes both power and elegance, much like the professionals who emerge victorious from corporate realignments.​

Under the hood, the M8 Competition Cabrio boasts a formidable 4.4-liter V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine, delivering a staggering 625 horsepower. This powerhouse propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.3 seconds, ensuring that its performance matches the ambitions of its driver. The M xDrive system with Active M Differential provides exceptional traction and agility, whether cruising through city streets or taking on alpine curves.​

The interior is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring exclusive M design elements and the finest materials, creating an ambiance that is both sporty and sophisticated. For the merger beneficiary seeking a vehicle that reflects their elevated position, the BMW M8 Competition Cabrio is an impeccable choice. Pricing for this model starts at 183,300 francs.

2. For the Sustainable Finance Evangelist

Most recent application of the PPE platform. (Image: Courtesy)

In the evolving landscape of sustainable finance, the Green Finance Evangelist leads the charge toward a more responsible future. Their commitment to environmental stewardship is mirrored in their choice of vehicle: the Audi Q6 SUV e-tron (see finews.ch's detailed test report, article in German). This fully electric SUV embodies Audi's dedication to innovation and sustainability, making it the perfect match for those who champion ecologic initiatives within the financial sector.​

The Q6 e-tron is the most recent and modern application of Audi's Premium Platform Electric (PPE), co-developed with Porsche, ensuring state-of-the-art electric performance. Equipped with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery, it offers a range of up to 625 kilometers on the WLTP cycle, providing both efficiency and peace of mind for longer journeys. With a maximum charging capacity of 270 kW, the Q6 e-tron can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 22 minutes, minimizing downtime and maximizing mobility. ​

Inside, the Q6 SUV e-tron features Audi's new Digital Stage panoramic display, combining an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central infotainment touchscreen. This intuitive interface aligns with the tech-savvy nature of the Green Finance Evangelist, offering seamless connectivity and control. The spacious interior, complemented by a 64-liter front trunk, ensures practicality without compromising luxury. For the eco-conscious banker seeking a vehicle that aligns with their values, the Audi Q6 SUV e-tron, starting at 79,900 francs, is an exemplary choice.

3. For the Gen Z Quant

Innovation with a touch of audacity. (Image: Courtesy)

In the fast-paced world of quantitative finance, the Gen Z Quant is all about efficiency, innovation, and a touch of audacity. Their vehicle of choice? The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (see finews.ch's detailed test report, article in German) – a high-performance electric vehicle that mirrors their cutting-edge approach to algorithms and markets. With its futuristic design and exhilarating performance, the Ioniq 5 N is as forward-thinking as its driver.​

Beneath its sleek exterior, the Ioniq 5 N boasts dual electric motors delivering a combined 650 PS, catapulting it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Its 84 kWh battery supports Hyundai's 800V architecture, enabling ultra-fast charging—ideal for professionals who value both speed and sustainability. Innovative features like N e-Shift and N Active Sound+ simulate the tactile and auditory sensations of traditional gear shifts and engine sounds, providing an engaging driving experience that resonates with the Gen Z Quant's appreciation for both nostalgia and technology. ​

Inside, the Ioniq 5 N offers a tech-savvy environment with advanced infotainment systems and a minimalist aesthetic, aligning with the Gen Z Quant's preference for streamlined, functional design. In Switzerland, the Ioniq 5 N is available starting at 79,900 francs, offering a compelling blend of performance and innovation for the discerning young professional.

4. For the Crossborder Wealth Whisperer

From Bahnhofstrasse to Tuscan backroads. (Image: Courtesy)

They think in currencies, not kilometers. Constantly navigating tax jurisdictions, family structures, and passport portfolios, the Crossborder Wealth Whisperer requires a vehicle that communicates fluency across borders, with gravitas and grace. The new Range Rover Sport (see finews.ch's detailed test report, article in German) delivers precisely that: composed, confident, and unmistakably global.

With its sculpted design and commanding presence, the 2024 Range Rover Sport projects discreet power. Under the hood, a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine ensures dynamic performance, while advanced suspension and all-wheel drive systems adapt effortlessly from Zurich’s inner city to the Tuscan backroads. This is not a vehicle for attention — it’s for control.

Inside, the Sport lives up to its name with luxurious materials, minimalist architecture, and a seamlessly integrated infotainment system. For the wealth manager who moves with discretion, precision, and strategic intent, this is the rare SUV that says just enough — and never too much. Prices in Switzerland start around 109,000 francs.

5. For the Family Office Strategist

DNA inspired by racing. (Image: Courtesy)

In the nuanced realm of family office management, the strategist balances tradition with innovation, discretion with assertiveness. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio embodies this delicate equilibrium, offering a harmonious blend of Italian craftsmanship and design, exhilarating performance, and understated luxury – qualities that resonate with the multifaceted role of the Family Office Strategist.​ It is not a new model, to be sure, but it might be your last chance to get hold of the traditional, racing-inspired Alfa Romeo DNA.

At the heart of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio lies a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering an impressive 510 horsepower. This powerhouse propels the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.8 seconds, ensuring that the strategist can navigate both urban landscapes and alpine retreats with equal aplomb. The Q4 all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, essential for Switzerland's diverse driving conditions. ​

Inside, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio offers a sanctuary of sophistication, featuring premium materials and advanced technology. The driver-centric cockpit is equipped with an 8.8-inch infotainment system, seamlessly integrating navigation and connectivity features. For the Family Office Strategist seeking a vehicle that mirrors their dynamic and discerning nature, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio stands as a compelling choice. In Switzerland, prices for this model start at approximately 109,900 francs.

Read on the next page which archetype of finance professional is still encouraged to buy a Tesla, despite the calamities surrounding the company and its founder, Elon Musk.