Stifel Bank Captures the Sounds of Success for US Ski and Snowboarding Sponsorship

American investment bank Stifel and agency Known launches its latest campaign in honour of Stifel’s sponsorship of the United States Ski and Snowboarding Team.

The new work starts off a full funnel campaign, 'Where Success Meets Success,' ahead of 2026 Olympics in Milano Cortina, which is already in development at Known and will star iconic US athletes.

For Stifel, a brand that lacks widespread recognition and whose name poses a pronunciation challenge, building brand awareness cannot be accomplished by blending into the visual uniformity and marketing tropes of the winter sports category. 

To help Stifel stand out, Known needed to capture consumer attention with fresh, unexpected storytelling that not only communicates what Stifel stands for but also fosters connection with the audience. This campaign is a departure for Stifel: Not only have they never worked with a creative agency in this capacity, but they’ve also never deviated from the landscape’s visual norms.

Another unique element - the campaign includes Stifel’s CEO, whose likeness and wing tip shoes in the snow were rendered with the help of AI!

For background, Known will serve as creative and strategic AOR for the Stifel United States Ski and Snowboarding Team.

Mark Feldstein, partner and president, Known Studios said, “As Stifel's strategy and creative agency, we’re excited to bring to life all the ways in which its partnership with the US Ski Team reflects Stifel’s commitment to the precision and confidence it takes to succeed as world class athletes and as investment advisors. With the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, our first campaign sets the stage for Stifel to stand apart with a bold, dynamic voice and new visual approach to the category.” 

Ron Kruszewski, CEO, Stifel said, “Now is a momentous time for Stifel. Coming off strong performance in 2024, we couldn’t be more excited to partner with Known in taking the Stifel brand to the next level and celebrating our United States Ski Team athletes through the upcoming winter Olympics.”