About Us

Unparalleled Security For 40,000 Members Globally

Established in 2004, IBV has experienced remarkable growth, expanding our global footprint in just 20 years. Our rapidly growing industry boasts a diverse network of over 40,000 members worldwide. We are on a mission to become the world’s most exclusive provider of private vault services. At IBV, we are committed to upholding the highest global standards in security while offering prestigious services that cater to a discerning clientele. Our expertise encompasses state-of-the-art security solutions, gold exchange, and exclusive offerings designed for high-end clients. Above all, we pride ourselves on delivering invaluable service that meets the unique needs of each client, ensuring their assets are safeguarded with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Safe Deposit Boxes

Jewellery Storage

Bullion Storage

Document Storage

Currency Storage

Bullion Sales

Our History : Global Legacy of Luxury and Security

What started as a single vision in Durban has become a global standard for elite security and unparalleled luxury. Under the leadership of Ashok Sewnarain, IBV International Vaults has evolved into more than just vaults—we safeguard legacies while offering a lifestyle few can access. From the heart of Johannesburg to the elegance of Mayfair, each milestone reflects our commitment to protecting what matters most, in the most extraordinary way.

2002

2004

2005

2006

2017

2020

2022

2023

2024

2002

The Vision Takes Root

While waiting in line at Standard Bank’s vault facility in Musgrave, Durban, our founder, Ashok Sewnarain, witnessed a woman being told she’d have to wait three years for a safe deposit box. This pivotal moment inspired him to create a private vault company of his own—thus, IBV International Vaults was born. Later in 2022, IBV acquired this ironic branch too.

2004

A Groundbreaking Milestone

Then known as International Bank Vaults, our first cutting-edge facility opened in Umhlanga, Durban, featuring 4,000 secure safe deposit boxes, advanced security systems, and private parking. Later, the company evolved into IBV International Vaults.

2005

Introducing Bullion Trading with IBV Gold

With the launch of IBV Gold, we extended our services to offer seamless and transparent bullion trading, enabling clients to invest in gold at the most competitive prices in the market.

2006

Setting New Standards in Johannesburg

Following our success in Durban, we expanded to Johannesburg, opening South Africa’s second-most secure vault facility in the prestigious Sandton area, with 5,000 safe deposit boxes and unmatched security protocols.

2017

Going Global with Zurich, Switzerland

Our footprint reached Europe with the launch of a premier vault facility in Zurich, complete with bullion trading services. This location became a hub for both local and international clients seeking secure offshore gold investments.

2020

A Legacy of Luxury in Mayfair, London

On February 4, 2020, we unveiled IBV London—one of the world’s most exclusive and secure vaults, located in the heart of Mayfair. Featuring iris scanners, CEN-standard vault doors, and steel-reinforced walls, this facility sets the benchmark for high-security vaults globally.

2022

Expanding Across South Africa

In a landmark acquisition, IBV took over Standard Bank’s Safe Custody Business Division, adding four additional secure facilities to our South African portfolio. Each branch was upgraded with the latest security technology and service enhancements, offering clients seamless and secure access to their valuables.

2023

Breaking New Ground in Dubai

With an established global presence, we launched our 8th secure facility in the prestigious Gold and Diamond Park in Dubai. Equipped with facial recognition systems and private safes, this location adds another layer of convenience and sophistication to our offerings.

2024

Introducing IBV Privé in Durban

This year marks the launch of IBV Privé, a member-exclusive wealth club in Durban, designed to deliver a comprehensive luxury experience. Offering private boardrooms, an exclusive restaurant, personal concierge services, and ultra-luxurious safe deposit boxes, IBV Privé redefines wealth management.

From the Desk of Managing Director

At IBV London, we understand the importance of securing your valuable possessions. Located at 46 Park Lane, Mayfair in the prestigious Grade II listed Stanhope House in London, we are on a mission to redefine your safekeeping experience. We welcome you to experience our impregnable security and unmatchable customer service that will guarantee peace of mind.

Sean Hoey
MD, IBV London

Our Core Values

Inspiring Peace Of Mind Through Innovation.

Trust

We believe that the consistent assurance of service delivery develops trust. Trust builds relationships and relationships build our business. Fundamental honesty and integrity is the keystone of our success, and driving customer peace of mind for the long term guides our actions.

Respect

With a customer-focused ethos we respect our customers’ privacy, passions, pursuits and possessions through all of our offerings

Customer Focus

Our culture is built upon what is best for our customers. We transfer their risk to ourselves, becoming the custodians of their most precious possessions.

Innovation

Innovation is activation. It is dreaming big dreams and then doing. We are agile and move with the times to ensure our products are always relevant, carry value and leave a legacy.

Quality

Our business is built upon quality. Quality is never by accident - it is with intelligent effort and focus that we strive to deliver the best. The best of design, resources and people.