In this episode of Partnering to Create Wealth, David Marcus sits down with George Dickson, Jr., Senior EVP and CIO of New York Private Bank & Trust, and Emigrant Bank, to discuss the evolution of Emigrant Bank and the principles that have guided the institution across decades of market cycles.

George shares how the bank transformed from a traditional savings institution into a modern private banking platform, while maintaining a conservative, client-first approach to risk and capital management. The conversation explores how that discipline has enabled the bank to navigate major financial crises — from 1987 to 2008, the pandemic, and recent banking volatility.

They also discuss the firm’s investment philosophy, including its focus on transparency, tax efficiency, and portfolio construction through ETFs and separately managed accounts. George explains how helping clients truly understand what they own — and the risks they’re taking — is central to the bank’s approach.

Finally, the conversation turns to the evolution of the broader Emigrant platform, including the development of specialized businesses and the growing role of the venture ecosystem under Michael Milstein, culminating in the transformation of 22 Vanderbilt into a hub for innovation and investment.