Sabbatical, family, home ownership: follow your dreams

Alexander K. (39) is what you might call a high-flyer. And not without reason. Even as a student of business administration, he set himself ambitious goals – and achieved them with bravura. At 36 he joined the management team at a Swiss medical technology company. He also aims as high in sport as he does at work, conquering even the steepest mountain passes on his racing bike.

After working full-throttle without a break until now, Alexander more and more often finds his mind wandering while at the office. After having subordinated most aspects of his life to his career thus far, now he suddenly sees vast plains, majestic mountains and wild waters in his mind's eye. Discovering the unspoiled nature of Patagonia on his bike is his childhood dream. A dream that he has not yet been able to make a reality.

It’s high time for me to realize my dream. When, if not now?

Isn't it high time to realize it now? If not now, then when? All the more so as he wants to start a family with his long-term partner Magdalena (35) soon. The wedding is due to take place in just over two years, after which the couple is planning a peaceful life in the countryside – in a home of their own.

As is typical for him, first Alexander puts his thoughts in order – then the facts of his life. His employer and colleagues are understanding about his desire to travel. He is allowed to take an unpaid sabbatical for six months, before coming back to the company later with fresh motivation.

But is his plan also financially viable? Alexander turns to his UBS client advisor. He quickly discovers that although he's run through all possible scenarios with his sabbatical, starting a family and buying a home, he still feels uncertain. Luckily his client advisor is able to allay his fears: “Just as you plan your bicycle route, together we will also make a plan for your finances.”

The UBS Wealth Way consulting approach systematically shows how we can reach the goal at the end of each stretch of the journey. Taking stock helps bring various goals into alignment. Assets are structured according to three key strategies: liquidity, longevity and legacy.

Due to his upcoming sabbatical, liquidity is currently at the forefront of Alexander’s mind. With his almost spartan lifestyle, he has built up considerable savings in recent years and has also benefited from a successful investment strategy. “On the one hand, the travel budget must have enough leeway built in to cover unforeseen circumstances,” the client advisor explains. “On the other, we pay attention to ensuring you don't have to sell any existing investments at an unfavorable time.” 

To ensure that no aspect is forgotten, the advisor includes all securities – including those tied up in a corporate shareholding – in the UBS Wealth Plan. When looking at the overall picture, it quickly becomes apparent that Alexander can further optimize his investments and continue to build up his wealth.

Patagonia is an ideal place to clear your head and gain new impressions. But Alexander’s great journey into the unknown still awaits him. A wedding, purchasing real estate and starting a family are events that drastically change everyday life and have an impact on finances in several dimensions. “We take into account not only the direct financial consequences, but also, for example, the tax and legal changes that result from getting married,” says the client advisor: “With the right planning, many wishes can be achieved. Especially buying a home.”

Getting married, buying a property, having a child – these emotional events also influence your finances.

Since Alexander has had his budget under control so far, it is worthwhile for him to expand his pension planning and build up assets in the long term as part of the “longevity” strategy. At the same time, it helps to make home ownership affordable and secure the family’s financial future. Alexander may also gain additional leeway if his parents transfer part of their assets to him in the next few years, as they have already indicated they will. When the topic of “legacy” becomes relevant for Alexander and Magdalena, they can go into this in more detail in a future consultation. 

In any case, it's important to Alexander that his partner and her goals are also integrated in his plan. “The UBS Wealth Way approach is not set in stone. We’ll adjust your route flexibly together if your life goals or circumstances change,” the client advisor says: “Look forward to your future adventures!”

Even if his Patagonia tour takes him over hill and dale, Alexander is free to throw all his energy into taking on the challenge. When it comes to his finances, UBS has his back.