Investing money in Switzerland: The right way to invest your assets

Switzerland is one of the most attractive countries in the world when it comes to investing money. stability, a sound financial system and a wide range of investment options make it the ideal location for investors who want to secure their assets in the long term and grow them sensibly. But investing money in Switzerland means more than just putting money in an account. It requires strategic planning, in-depth knowledge and adaptation to local conditions.

An overview of the most important things

Switzerland as a financial center: CHF 8,400 billion of assets under management, 45% of which come from abroad — a sign of trust, stability and global access.

Active wealth planning: Simply parking money is not enough — well-thought-out tax, risk and structural planning is essential.

Diversity of asset classes: Equities, real estate, ESG and alternative investments as strategic instruments — broad diversification avoids cluster risks.

Independent asset management: Starting at CHF 500,000, the focus is on a clear, individual investment strategy, not pure bank sales.

Transparent fees: Every cost item must be known — this is the only way to avoid paying for returns that are actually not realized.

Swiss financial market: stability and diversity as foundations

The Swiss financial market is characterized by a high level of stability and broad diversity. In 2023, Swiss banks managed assets of just under CHF 8,400 billion — an increase of 6.9% compared to the previous year. Around 45% of this comes from foreign clients, which underlines Switzerland's international importance as an asset management company.

This solid basis, combined with a diverse range of products and in-depth expert knowledge, makes Switzerland the ideal location for professional and tailor-made asset management.

Popular forms of investment in Switzerland

Choosing the right asset class depends on return expectations, risk profile and liquidity needs. The most important forms of investment are:

stocks: Access to leading companies, dividend stability. Suitable for long-term investors with a higher risk appetite.

Bonds: Stability through Swiss and international issuers. Suitable for conservative investors to minimize risks.

real estate: Stable market, protected from inflation. Suitable for investors with a focus on tangible assets.

Sustainable investments (ESG): Combining responsibility and return. Suitable for long-term investors with a focus on sustainability.

Alternative investments: Exclusive return opportunities, but complex. Suitable for experienced investors with professional advice.

A targeted combination of different types of investment optimizes returns, manages risks and takes individual goals into account.

Who can you invest money with in Switzerland?

There are various groups of providers in Switzerland

‍Independent asset managers: Individual strategies, independent product selection, personal support. Suitable from CHF 500,000.

Major banks (e.g. UBS, CS): Wide range of products, international presence. Little individual support, potential conflicts of interest.

Retail banks (e.g. Raiffeisen): Local proximity, personal contacts. Limited range of products.

Online platforms (robo-advisors): Cheap, easy, fast. Standardised strategies, no individual planning

Insurance: Combination with pension products. Often high costs and limited liquidity.

Family offices: Holistic support including tax and succession planning. Suitable for assets starting at around CHF 10 million

Not every provider is suitable for every investment situation. Anyone looking for more than just a standard solution and values transparency, expertise and personal support should pay particular attention to the independence and specialization of the partner. An independent asset manager with local roots in Switzerland can make the decisive difference here — especially when the assets reach a size that individual management brings real added value. You can find out more about this in the article: When does asset management start to pay off?

How much does it cost to invest money in Switzerland?

Costs have a major impact on net returns. Typical cost types are:

Administration fee: 0.30% — 1.50% p.a.

Deposit fees: CHF 0 — 250+ p.a.

Transaction costs: 0.05% — 0.50% per trade

Product costs (funds/ETFs): 0.10% — 2.00% p.a.

Success fees: 10% — 20% of the additional income

Consulting costs: CHF 150 — 500+ per hour

Pay attention to what?

• Transparency at all costs
• Quality instead of pure price comparison
• Economies of scale starting at CHF 500,000
• Partner independence

Common questions

From what amount is a personal consultation worthwhile?
From around CHF 250,000, individual advice brings added value; from CHF 500,000, independent administration is usually more efficient.

What are the biggest mistakes made by private investors?
Short-term yield hunting without a clear strategy, a lack of diversification and emotional decisions in volatile markets.

Is my money with an independent asset manager safe?
Yes It is in your own account with a custodian bank. The administrator has no access; in addition, the FINMA-Regulation for safety.

What distinguishes independent administrators from banks?
They work product-neutrally, without sales pressure and offer personal support and individual strategies.

Our experts near you

Investing money in Switzerland works best with a competent partner at your side. Our experienced, independent asset manager are there for you at four locations in Switzerland: zurich, St. Gallen, basel and luzern.

Contact us for a non-binding initial consultation:

Zurich: +41 44 913 30 50

St. Gallen: +41 71 913 60 30

Basel: +41 61 913 00 60

Lucerne: +41 71 913 60 30

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