Switzerland is a leading global financial center, known for its strong banking system and expertise in wealth management. Its economic stability fosters confidence among both individuals and investors. What are the key features of the Swiss banking and financial system? And how do you go about opening a bank account if you're moving to Switzerland?
The main features of the Swiss banking and financial sector
Stability and confidentiality
The Swiss financial system is well-regarded for its stability, thanks to careful regulation and oversight. The Swiss National Bank (SNB) maintains a cautious monetary policy aimed at price stability and sustainable economic growth.
Switzerland is also known for its strong tradition of financial confidentiality, providing a secure environment for investors globally. This commitment to banking secrecy dates back to the Banking Act of 1934, which prohibits banks from disclosing their customers' financial details.
In recent years, banking secrecy has faced international scrutiny, but the Swiss financial sector continues to be highly regarded for its commitment to protecting client confidentiality.
Swiss banks: world leaders in wealth management
Swiss banks are well-known for their expertise in wealth management, providing highly personalized services to high-net-worth clients globally. They hold about 25% of the market share in cross-border wealth management.
Innovation and financial technology (Fintech)
As a leading financial center, Switzerland is at the forefront of financial innovation and technology. Innovation is a key component of the Federal Council's financial market strategy.
The Swiss financial sector, from fintech start-ups to major banking institutions, is actively adopting new technologies to boost operational efficiency, enhance transaction security, and offer new products and services to customers.
The Swiss financial industry is focusing heavily on innovations like blockchain and digital payments. Switzerland has emerged as a key hub for start-ups and companies specializing in blockchain and digital assets. Cities such as Zurich and Zug, often referred to as "Crypto Valley," are leading this technological revolution.
Leading banks in Switzerland
There are around 235 banks in Switzerland.
The two major international banks, UBS and Credit Suisse, account for around 40% of the total balance sheet of all banks in Switzerland.
The remaining 60% was divided mainly between the 24 cantonal banks, foreign banks, Raiffeisen banks, stock exchange banks, regional banks, savings banks, and private banks.
UBS (Union Bank of Switzerland)
UBS, one of the world's largest banks, provides a comprehensive range of services, including wealth management, investment banking, and retail banking.
Credit Suisse
Acquired by UBS in 2023, Credit Suisse offers a range of services, including wealth management, investment banking, asset management, and retail banking, to clients worldwide.
Raiffeisen
Raiffeisen is Switzerland's third-largest banking group, consisting of numerous regional cooperative banks.
Julius Baer
Julius Baer is a bank specializing in asset management.
Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB)
Switzerland's largest cantonal bank, ZKB provides a comprehensive range of services, including retail banking, wealth management, and corporate services.
Banque Cantonale Vaudoise (BCV)
BCV is another prominent cantonal bank that provides a broad range of banking services to individuals, businesses, and institutions both within the canton of Vaud and beyond.
Lombard Odier
Lombard Odier is a Swiss private bank that focuses on wealth management and private banking services.
Banque Pictet & Cie
Pictet is another Swiss private bank that provides wealth management, asset management, and investment advisory services.
Swiss National Bank (SNB)
The Swiss National Bank is the central bank of Switzerland. It oversees the country's monetary policy, analyzes financial market trends, and monitors the financial infrastructure.
Currency in Switzerland
Keep in mind that Switzerland uses the Swiss franc, not the euro. As of now, 1 Swiss franc is worth approximately 1.01 euros. For the most up-to-date exchange rates, check an online converter regularly.
However, many Swiss banks also offer euro accounts in addition to accounts in Swiss francs.
What are the main banking and financial services in Switzerland?
Swiss banks provide a wide range of financial services tailored to the diverse needs of individuals, businesses, and institutions.
Standard bank account services
Swiss bank accounts provide essential functions such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and payments. Customers can select from current, savings, and deposit accounts.
Additionally, online and mobile banking services are available for managing accounts, making transactions, checking balances, and paying bills.
Credits and loans
Swiss banks provide a range of credit and loan products, including mortgages, personal loans, lines of credit, and commercial financing for businesses.
Credit approval in Switzerland is stringent, with nearly half of all private credit applications being rejected.
Corporate banking services
Companies can take advantage of specialized banking services, such as cash management, trade finance, foreign exchange, international trade, and payment services.
Investment, asset and portfolio management
As noted, Swiss banks are well-known for their expertise in wealth management. They provide services such as portfolio management, financial planning, succession planning, and investment advisory for high-net-worth clients.
Their investment services encompass trading in equities, bonds, and mutual funds, handling orders for third parties, and offering tailored investment products and solutions.
Tax and financial planning advice
Related to the previous services, this offering includes professional advice on tax matters, estate planning, asset structuring, and other financial planning aspects.
How do I open a bank account in Switzerland as a foreigner?
Conditions for opening a bank account in Switzerland
As an individual, you can open a bank account in Switzerland if you meet specific requirements set by each bank.
Generally, Swiss banks will need valid identification, such as a passport or residence permit for foreigners, along with proof of residence, like a rental contract or utility bill.
Some banks might ask for details about the source of your funds and the purpose of opening the account.
While there's generally no minimum deposit required to open an account in Switzerland, you will need to maintain a minimum balance, which varies depending on the type of account.
Keep in mind that some banks may have stricter requirements for foreign customers. Contact your chosen bank for a complete list of required documents based on your situation.
Account types and services available from Swiss banks
To begin with, you'll need to define your needs: what is the purpose of the account you plan to open in Switzerland?
As in many countries, you can open a current account (also known as a "salary account") and a savings account in Switzerland.
Current or salary account
A current account lets you manage and transfer money for everyday use.
Typically, you won't incur bank charges for opening the account or receiving monthly statements. However, some banks may impose account management fees, especially for online accounts. Be sure to check with your chosen bank for their specific fees.
Many banks provide a free debit card for withdrawals and in-store purchases, but this card cannot be used for online payments.
For online and international transactions, you'll need a credit card, which you can request directly from your Swiss bank.
Most banks offer online account management, so be sure to check for any associated fees.
Good to know:
Some banks offer special packages for cross-border workers. Check out the various options available from Swiss banks.
The savings account
As the name implies, a savings account is designed to grow your assets and investments rather than manage your day-to-day finances. It typically offers an interest rate on your balance. While current accounts also offer interest, the rate is generally much lower.
The student account
International students in Switzerland can open accounts with favorable terms, including higher interest rates (up to a certain limit) compared to standard accounts. Account management and debit cards are usually free for students.
The required documents may vary by bank, but you'll generally need to provide proof of identity, a residence permit, and proof of university registration.
Money transfers in Switzerland
For transferring money from abroad to Switzerland, check your bank's terms and conditions. Many Swiss banks do not charge fees for SEPA transfers to European countries. However, other types of transfers may incur charges, typically ranging from 4 to 6 francs per transaction.
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