Kleinwort Benson, the UK-based private bank which boasts roots stretching back to the 1850s, plans to launch a foray into Asia following the completion of its acquisition by RHJ International, a Belgian buy-out fund.

In his first interview since the £225m ($373m, €248m) deal was unveiled 10 days ago, Rob Taylor, chief executive of Kleinwort Benson, says the barriers that had constrained the wealth manager’s international expansion would now be removed.