Switzerland remains one of the leading financial centres globally. Its strong financial services, economic, and political stability is the basis upon which the trust of businesses is built. With over 250 banks, 1,800 pension funds, 200 insurance companies, and up to 97 foreign-owned banks, Switzerland thrives in providing exceptional financial services.

The Swiss financial sector is the foundation of the Swiss economy generating about 10% of the country’s GDP. Switzerland has implemented global principles for taxes, inhibition of money laundering and financing for terrorists, while maintaining financial stability in the market.

The Swiss banking system adopts the universal banking principle. They offer all traditional banking services like savings and current accounts, and a vast range of financial products and services for both corporate and private clients. Banks also provide different kinds of short and long-term loans.

In addition to the Country’s Swiss francs, most of the banks offer accounts in foreign currencies like U.S dollars, Euros, etc. Many of them also do not set a minimum deposit amount for normal current or savings accounts. Most importantly, the Swiss interest rate is relatively low compared to other countries. Hence, businesses and investment activities can be affordably financed.

Another important finance sector is the insurance. With its vast value-added, the insurance companies contribute significantly to Switzeland’s economic performance. The most important financial centers are Zurich and Geneva, both of which have an international reputation, with Lugano in third place.

The four most important factors that distinguish the Swiss Financial System from the rest of the world are:

• Stability: The Swiss financial center is known for its stability. Switzerland is a “safe haven” for individuals and businesses from all over the world because of its strong banks, dependable legal system and political institutions, and stable currency. While Swiss banks do business all over the world, they are deeply established in their local market.

• Universality: Swiss banks are culturally diversified, offering a comprehensive variety of goods and services to customers of various nationalities and wealth levels. As a result, they can cater to the widest range of consumer requirements. The banks are able to give excellent advise due to their highly skilled, multilingual, and open-minded employees.

• Responsibility: The Swiss banks’ actions are guided by a respect for the person as well as the ethical and moral norms of the social institutions in which they operate. These values must be upheld and protected. When it comes to their treatment of customers, society, employees, and the environment, Swiss banks set the standard extremely high. They’ve set clear guidelines for how their day-to-day operations are evaluated, reviewed, and improved. Swiss banking advocates for practical norms and conforms to global standards while working with foreign organizations.

• Excellence: Swiss banks achieve the highest quality standards by employing the most talented, capable, and ambitious personnel, tried-and-true and creative processes, and the finest available systems. They are based on the Swiss financial center’s long legacy, but they are also open and adaptable in responding to the changing requirements of their clients and society.

Edelweiss Panorama International is dedicated to providing a wide range of professional and innovative financial services. Our integrated solutions and industry expertise allow us to understand the unique business needs of each client. From insurance and banking to securities distribution and wealth management, our dedicated team of financial experts serves all major sectors of the industry. We provide general Investment Advices and also work with leading institutions in the Corporate Finance and Investment Banking, Asset-Management, among others. Edelweiss Panorama International will keep you focused on a more sustainable future of financial services.