Banks in Switzerland Key Terms

Invest overseas assets more effectively with banks in Switzerland key terms

By Kelley Keith

The banks in Switzerland have long had a reputation for secrecy and banking stability. With this secrecy comes a banking structure that is more complicated than most other countries' systems. This complicated structure shouldn't prohibit investors from investing there or businesses from banking there, however, because the banking system in Switzerland helps ensure the safety and privacy of your banking investments.

No matter your interest in Swiss banking, to understand banking in Switzerland you need to know a few key terms. From these terms, you can build a knowledge base that'll help you or your company make effective asset allocation decisions.

Universal banking model

The banks in Switzerland were one of the first banking systems to institute the universal banking model. The universal banking model incorporates all financial services in one bank. For example, a universal bank in Switzerland offers investment services, as well as traditional savings and loan services.
Try: Review the definition of a universal banking model available at Investopedia for more information.

UBS AG bank

The UBS AG bank is one of the largest banks in Switzerland. They are also a truly international bank with branches in 50 countries and most major world financial centers.
Try: Examine the scope and mission of the UBS AG bank at their website for further details.

Credit Suisse Group

The Credit Suisse Group, established in 1856, is one of the oldest banks in the region. It actively operates in 50 countries with access to account in over 100 countries.
Try: Study the priorities and targets of the Credit Suisse Group for further details on the institution.

Cantonal banks

Cantonal banks are banks partially owned and guaranteed by the Swiss government. Cantons are regional divided territories in Switzerland comparable to states in America.
Try: Scroll down the page available at SwissBanking for more information on cantonal banks.

Swiss Federal Banking Commission

The Swiss Federal Banking Commission is the primary regulatory agency that governs the financial markets in Switzerland. The commission's first responsibility is to the consumer. Therefore, if you have any problems with Swiss banks, this is the agency to contact.
Try: Evaluate the responsibilities and objective of the Swiss Federal Banking Commission.

Swiss Franc

The Swiss Franc is the primary currency of the banks in Switzerland. When making deposits in U.S. Dollars into Swiss Franc accounts, it's important to know the currency conversion rate.
Try: Assess the definition and conversion rate of the Swiss Franc at Convert World.