Category: Blog Articles

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Frauen in der Schweiz erhalten im Alter durchschnittlich ein Drittel weniger Rente als Männer – konkret etwa 20’000 CHF pro Jahr weniger. Gleichzeitig wächst der Anteil der Schweizerinnen, die ihr Geld eigenständig anlegen, innerhalb eines Jahres um fast 20 Prozent. Diese Zahlen verdeutlichen sowohl die Herausforderungen als auch die Veränderungen in der finanziellen Situation von Frauen. 

Gezielte Finanzberatung kann entscheidend dazu beitragen, bestehende Lücken zu schliessen und in jeder Lebensphase die Weichen für finanzielle Selbstbestimmung zu stellen.

Das Wichtigste auf einen Blick

• Eine Studie von Swiss Life (2024) beziffert den Gender Pension Gap in der Schweiz auf rund ein Drittel – Rentnerinnen erhalten jährlich ca. 20’000 CHF weniger als männliche Ruheständler
• Hauptursache sind die unterschiedlichen Erwerbsbiografien: Teilzeitarbeit, Erwerbsunterbrechungen und tiefere Löhne schlagen sich in der Rente nieder
• In der beruflichen Vorsorge (2. Säule) ist der Unterschied mit 67 Prozent laut Berner Fachhochschule besonders markant
• Der Anteil investierender Frauen in der Schweiz wächst laut YouGov/BlackRock (2024) deutlich – dennoch legt nur jede dritte Frau Geld an, während es bei Männern mehr als jeder zweite tut
• Eine strategische Finanzplanung in allen Lebensphasen kann Vorsorgelücken minimieren und langfristig zu finanzieller Unabhängigkeit führen

Finanzielle Herausforderungen in verschiedenen Lebensphasen

Die Rentendifferenz basiert vor allem auf den Einkommensunterschieden während des Erwerbslebens. Frauen in der Schweiz verdienen in den Jahren vor der Pensionierung durchschnittlich 40 bis 50 Prozent weniger als Männer – ein Unterschied, der sich direkt in den Altersleistungen niederschlägt.

In der beruflichen Vorsorge (2. Säule) ist die Lücke besonders gravierend. Das Bundesamt für Statistik dokumentiert, dass vier von zehn Schweizerinnen in Teilzeit arbeiten, was niedrigere Pensionskassenbeiträge zur Folge hat. Hinzu kommen häufigere Erwerbsunterbrechungen, die zu fragmentierten Beitragszahlungen führen.

Berufseinstieg: Kapital für späteren Vermögensaufbau

Der Berufseinstieg ist finanziell entscheidend, da hier die Weichen für die langfristige Vermögensentwicklung gestellt werden. Wer früh beginnt, profitiert erheblich vom Zinseszinseffekt. Eine Modellrechnung verdeutlicht: Bei monatlichen Einzahlungen von 300 Franken und einer durchschnittlichen Rendite von 5 Prozent wächst das Vermögen nach 40 Jahren auf rund 400’000 Franken an. Bei gleicher Sparrate, aber nur 20 Jahren Anlagedauer, reduziert sich der Endbetrag auf etwa 120’000 Franken.

Lesetipp: Wie Sie als Berufseinsteiger Karriere in der Finanzindustrie machen

Familienplanung: Erwerbsbiografien bewusst gestalten

Die Familienplanung ist oft der Punkt, an dem sich Erwerbsbiografien von Frauen und Männern deutlich auseinander entwickeln. Eine Auswertung der Pensionskassenstatistik zeigt die langfristigen Auswirkungen: Reduziert eine Frau ihr Arbeitspensum von 100 auf 60 Prozent (bei einem Jahresgehalt von 84’000 Franken über zehn Jahre), entstehen Pensionskassenlücken von über 100’000 Franken. Diese setzen sich aus tieferen Einzahlungen und einer entsprechend tieferen Rente zusammen.

Bei der Familienplanung ist es daher wichtig, die langfristigen finanziellen Auswirkungen zu berücksichtigen und gemeinsam mit dem Partner Strategien zu entwickeln, die eine ausgewogene Beteiligung beider am Erwerbsleben ermöglichen.

Trennung oder Scheidung: Neue finanzielle Realität

Bei einer Scheidung zerplatzt für viele Frauen nicht nur die Vorstellung vom gemeinsamen Leben, sondern oft auch die finanzielle Sicherheit. Das Bundesgericht hat seine Rechtsprechung beim Unterhaltsrecht angepasst (BGE 144 III 481): Es orientiert sich nicht mehr am traditionellen Familienbild mit lebenslangen Unterhaltszahlungen, sondern erwartet eine stärkere wirtschaftliche Eigenverantwortung.

Eine Finanzanalyse nach der Trennung sollte daher zwei zentrale Aspekte beleuchten: die kurzfristige Sicherung des Lebensunterhalts und die langfristige Neuausrichtung der Altersvorsorge. Die Teilung der Pensionskassenguthaben bei einer Scheidung bietet zwar einen gewissen Schutz, reicht aber oft nicht aus, um bestehende Vorsorgelücken vollständig zu schliessen.

Vor der Pensionierung: Letzte Optimierungen nutzen

Fünf bis zehn Jahre vor der Pensionierung bieten sich letzte Möglichkeiten zur Optimierung der Altersvorsorge. Ein Einkauf in die Pensionskasse kann erhebliche Steuervorteile bringen. 

Fachleute empfehlen zudem, in dieser Phase eine umfassende Vorsorgeanalyse durchführen zu lassen, um sicherzustellen, dass alle Möglichkeiten zur Optimierung ausgeschöpft werden.

Das Schweizer Vorsorgesystem verstehen und nutzen

Das Schweizer Vorsorgesystem mit seinen drei Säulen hat für Frauen besondere Herausforderungen und Chancen:

1. Die erste Säule (AHV) wirkt ausgleichend und kennt dank Erziehungsgutschriften und dem Splittingprinzip bei Ehepaaren kaum geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede. Dennoch sollten Frauen regelmässig einen AHV-Kontoauszug anfordern, um Beitragslücken frühzeitig zu erkennen und zu schliessen.
2. Die zweite Säule (berufliche Vorsorge) stellt für viele Frauen die grösste Herausforderung dar. Die Eintrittsschwelle liegt 2025 bei 22’680 Franken Jahreseinkommen, was insbesondere Teilzeitbeschäftigte benachteiligt. Hinzu kommt der Koordinationsabzug von 26’460 Franken, der das versicherte Einkommen weiter reduziert. Wer für mehrere Arbeitgeber tätig ist und bei keinem die Eintrittsschwelle erreicht, sollte prüfen, ob eine freiwillige Versicherungslösung (z. B. über eine Sammelstiftung) möglich ist, um Lücken in der Altersvorsorge zu vermeiden.
3. Die dritte Säule (private Vorsorge) bietet Frauen die Möglichkeit, selbstbestimmt vorzusorgen. In die Säule 3a können Erwerbstätige mit Pensionskasse im Jahr 2025 bis zu 7’258 Franken einzahlen und den Betrag vom steuerbaren Einkommen abziehen. Für die langfristige Vermögensbildung empfehlen Fachleute Säule-3a-Lösungen mit einem Anteil an Wertschriften, da sie über längere Zeiträume deutlich höhere Renditechancen bieten als reine Sparkonten.

Erziehungs- und Betreuungsgutschriften aktiv nutzen

Die AHV kennt spezifische Ausgleichsmechanismen für Betreuungsarbeit: Erziehungsgutschriften werden automatisch angerechnet, wenn Kinder unter 16 Jahren betreut werden. Betreuungsgutschriften für die Pflege von Angehörigen müssen hingegen jährlich beantragt werden. Diese Gutschriften sind besonders wichtig für Frauen, da sie überproportional häufig Betreuungsaufgaben übernehmen.

Die richtige Finanzberatung finden

Eine professionelle Finanzberatung zeichnet sich durch mehrere Qualitätsmerkmale aus:

• Unabhängigkeit: Die Beratung sollte frei von Produktverkaufsinteressen sein. Achten Sie auf transparente Honorarmodelle statt provisionsbasierte Vergütung.
• Fachkompetenz: Fragen Sie nach Qualifikationen, Berufserfahrung und Spezialisierungen, besonders im Bereich Frauenfinanzen.
• Empathie: Eine gute Beraterin oder ein guter Berater hört zu, versteht Ihre individuelle Situation und passt die Empfehlungen entsprechend an.
• Transparenz: Alle Kosten, Risiken und Chancen sollten klar kommuniziert werden. Fordern Sie bei Unklarheiten konkrete Erläuterungen.

Spezialisierte Beratungsangebote in der Schweiz

In der Schweiz bieten verschiedene Institutionen spezialisierte Finanzberatung für Frauen an. 

Die Frauenorganisationen in den grösseren Städten verfügen über professionelle Beratungsangebote zu Vorsorge- und Budgetfragen. Diese Angebote umfassen in der Regel sowohl persönliche Gespräche als auch schriftliche Analysen der individuellen Vorsorgesituation. 

Daneben gibt es unabhängige Finanzberatende mit Spezialisierung auf die Bedürfnisse von Frauen. Diese bringen häufig sowohl Fachkompetenz im Finanzbereich als auch Erfahrung mit frauenspezifischen Finanzthemen mit und können besonders auf Themen wie Teilzeitarbeit, Erwerbsunterbrechungen oder die finanzielle Situation nach Trennungen eingehen.

Entscheidende Fragen für das Beratungsgespräch

Zur Vorbereitung auf ein Beratungsgespräch sollten Sie folgende Fragen klären:

• Wie erfolgt die Vergütung der Beratung? (Honorar, Provision oder Kombination)
• Welche spezifischen Qualifikationen und Erfahrungen im Bereich Frauenfinanzen bringt die Beraterin mit?
• Wie umfassend ist die Beratung – werden alle drei Säulen und zusätzliche Vermögensbildung berücksichtigt?
• Welche konkreten Unterlagen werden für die Beratung benötigt?
• Welche Nachbetreuung erfolgt nach der eigentlichen Beratung?

Tipps & Mythen beim Investieren

Aufholjagd der Schweizer Anlegerinnen

Die jüngste YouGov/BlackRock-Studie (2024) zeigt eine dynamische Entwicklung: Während der Anteil investierender Schweizerinnen innerhalb eines Jahres um 19 Prozent stieg, bleibt der Gender Gap beim Investieren dennoch deutlich. Nur etwa jede dritte Frau legt Geld in Wertpapieren an, während es bei Männern mehr als jeder zweite tut.

Mit 45 Prozent Anlegern insgesamt liegt die Schweiz an der europäischen Spitze, nur knapp hinter den skandinavischen Ländern. Besonders bei jungen Frauen (18-24 Jahre) verzeichnet die Studie einen starken Zuwachs von 36 Prozent.

ETFs: Optimal für den Einstieg

ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) sind bei Schweizer Anlegerinnen besonders beliebt. Sie bieten mehrere Vorteile, die sie besonders für Einsteigerinnen attraktiv machen:

• Breit diversifizierte Portfolios reduzieren das Risiko im Vergleich zu Einzelaktien
• Niedrige Verwaltungskosten im Vergleich zu aktiv gemanagten Fonds
• Hohe Transparenz bezüglich der enthaltenen Wertpapiere
• Flexibilität bei Ein- und Ausstieg durch börsentäglichen Handel

Mit populären ETFs, wie bspw. dem MSCI World Index konnten Anleger in den letzten zehn Jahren durchschnittlich 9,4 Prozent jährliche Rendite erzielen – bei deutlich geringerem Risiko als mit Einzelaktien.

Lesetipp: Die bedeutendsten Schweizer Aktienindizes im Überblick

Einstieg mit überschaubaren Beträgen

Die Annahme, dass Geldanlagen grosse Summen erfordern, entspricht nicht mehr der heutigen Realität. Aktuelle Marktanalysen zeigen, dass durch die Digitalisierung im Finanzsektor die Einstiegshürden deutlich gesunken sind. Zahlreiche Online-Plattformen ermöglichen mittlerweile den Einstieg mit monatlichen Beiträgen ab 10 Franken.

Finanzmodelle verdeutlichen die langfristigen Auswirkungen regelmässiger Kleinbeträge: Bei einem monatlichen Sparplan von 100 Franken in einen breit gestreuten ETF kann über einen Zeitraum von 30 Jahren bei einer durchschnittlichen jährlichen Rendite von 5 Prozent ein Vermögen von etwa 80’000 Franken entstehen. Solche kontinuierlichen Investitionen können somit durchaus einen substantiellen Beitrag zur langfristigen finanziellen Absicherung leisten.

Konkrete Schritte zur finanziellen Selbstbestimmung

1. Finanzielle Bestandsaufnahme machen

Der erste konkrete Schritt zur finanziellen Selbstbestimmung ist eine ehrliche Bestandsaufnahme. Erfassen Sie alle Einnahmen, Ausgaben, Vermögenswerte und Verbindlichkeiten. 

• Fixkosten (Miete, Versicherungen, Steuern)
• Variable Kosten (Lebensmittel, Kleidung, Freizeit)
• Sparziele (kurz-, mittel- und langfristig)

Hilfreiche Werkzeuge können Finanz-Apps sein, die eine automatische Kategorisierung ermöglichen.

2. Schutz vor finanziellen Risiken aufbauen

Bevor Sie in den Vermögensaufbau investieren, sollten Sie sich gegen finanzielle Risiken absichern. Dazu gehört ein Notgroschen von drei bis sechs Monatsgehältern auf einem separaten Konto mit schnellem Zugriff. Dieser bietet Sicherheit bei unerwarteten Ausgaben oder Einkommensausfällen.

Daneben ist ein adäquater Versicherungsschutz wichtig. Prüfen Sie Ihre Absicherung bei Invalidität und im Todesfall, insbesondere wenn Sie Familie haben oder allein für Ihren Lebensunterhalt aufkommen müssen.

3. Strategische Vorsorgeplanung umsetzen

Optimieren Sie Ihre Altersvorsorge systematisch in allen drei Säulen:

• AHV: Fordern Sie alle drei Jahre einen AHV-Kontoauszug an und schliessen Sie eventuelle Beitragslücken.
• Pensionskasse: Prüfen Sie, ob Ihre Pensionskasse Teilzeitarbeit fair berücksichtigt und ob der Koordinationsabzug anteilsmässig reduziert wird. Erwägen Sie freiwillige Einkäufe, wenn Ihre finanzielle Situation dies zulässt.
• Säule 3a: Nutzen Sie die Möglichkeit, jährlich bis zu 7’258 Franken (Stand 2025) in die Säule 3a einzuzahlen. Für langfristiges Wachstum empfiehlt sich eine Lösung mit Wertschriftenanteil.
• Säule 3b: Ergänzen Sie Ihre Vorsorge durch freies Sparen und Investieren, beispielsweise in ETFs oder Direktanlagen.

4. Erwerbstätigkeit langfristig planen

Die Erwerbsbiografie hat entscheidenden Einfluss auf die spätere Rente. Studien zeigen, dass ein durchschnittliches Arbeitspensum von mindestens 70 Prozent über das gesamte Berufsleben hinweg Vorsorgelücken deutlich reduzieren kann.

Falls eine Reduktion des Arbeitspensums – etwa für die Kinderbetreuung – notwendig ist, sollten Sie gemeinsam mit Ihrem Partner eine faire Aufteilung der Betreuungsaufgaben und Erwerbsarbeit anstreben. Die Swiss Life Studie bestätigt, dass gleichberechtigte Partnerschaften zu einer ausgeglicheneren Vorsorgesituation führen.

5. In Finanzwissen investieren

Fundiertes Finanzwissen bildet die Grundlage für selbstbestimmte Entscheidungen. Frauen mit gutem Finanzwissen investieren häufiger als Frauen ohne entsprechende Kenntnisse.

Nutzen Sie hochwertige Quellen zur Weiterbildung (Fachbücher, Workshops, Kurse, Podcasts) und wagen Sie sich schrittweise an Ihre Finanzplanung.

Fazit: Eigene Finanzen aktiv gestalten

Frauen, die ihre Finanzen aktiv gestalten, können die Weichen für ihre finanzielle Zukunft neu stellen. Die wachsende Zahl von Anlegerinnen in der Schweiz verdeutlicht, dass immer mehr Frauen die Kontrolle über ihre finanzielle Situation übernehmen.

Die wichtigsten Hebel sind eine bewusste Erwerbsplanung, die systematische Nutzung aller Vorsorgesäulen und der frühzeitige Einstieg in die Geldanlage. Eine unabhängige Finanzberatung kann dabei entscheidende Impulse geben und helfen, individuelle Strategien zu entwickeln.

Wer heute aktiv wird, sichert sich langfristig finanzielle Unabhängigkeit und Selbstbestimmung – in jeder Lebensphase.

Reading Time: 5 minutes

In the dynamic world of financial investments, Actively Managed Certificates (AMCs) have established themselves as attractive investment vehicles for discerning investors. However, as with all financial instruments, a solid understanding of the regulatory framework is essential. Especially in Switzerland, a global center for wealth management, AMCs are subject to specific regulations that offer both protection and flexibility.

The most important facts at a glance

• AMCs in Switzerland are primarily subject to the Financial Services Act (FinSA) and the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA)
• FINMA acts as the central supervisory authority with extensive supervisory powers
• Issuers must ensure transparency with regard to fee structure, risks and investment strategy
• Governance requirements protect investors from conflicts of interest and operational risks
• Compared to traditional funds, AMCs often offer more flexibility with less regulatory burden

Legal framework for AMCs in Switzerland

The regulatory framework for AMCs in Switzerland is primarily based on the Financial Services Act (FinSA), which regulates the products and associated services, and the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA), which regulates the requirements for the financial intermediaries involved. These legal foundations, which came into force in 2020, have fundamentally modernized the regulatory landscape for financial products and financial service providers. Unlike collective investment schemes (funds), AMCs are not subject to the Collective Investment Schemes Act (CISA), which gives them certain advantages in terms of flexibility.

The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) monitors compliance with these regulations and ensures that AMC providers have the necessary licenses. In addition, the recommendations of the Swiss Structured Products Association (SSPA) play an important role as an industry standard, especially since the publication of comprehensive AMC guidelines in 2020.

In a global comparison, the Swiss regulatory approach to AMCs is perceived as balanced. It provides robust investor protection mechanisms without overly restricting product innovation. This differs from the stricter regulation under MiFID II in the EU, where comparable products are often subject to more complex requirements.

Reading tip: FAQ about actively managed certificates

Transparency and disclosure obligations

Issuers of AMCs must provide comprehensive product documentation. Depending on the target market, this includes a standardized key information document (KID), which presents all key product features, risks and costs in a comprehensible form. These documents must always be made available to potential investors before an investment decision is made.

The documentation must contain precise information on the investment strategy, the permitted asset classes and any investment restrictions. Investors should pay particular attention to the level of detail of this information as it forms the basis for the assessment of investment suitability.

A critical aspect of regulation concerns the disclosure of costs. AMC providers must be transparent about charges, including:

• Management fees (typically 0.5% to 2% p.a. on the net assets in the product)
• Performance fees (often 10% to 20% of the excess return)
• Trading costs and spread fees
• Issue fees and redemption costs
• Indirect costs due to underlying investments

This transparency obligation enables you as an investor to make a well-founded assessment of the actual cost burden of your investment.

Risk management and governance

Swiss regulations require AMC providers to have robust risk management systems. These must identify, measure and monitor the relevant risks. Those responsible must have sufficient qualifications and carry out regular risk assessments.

Clear responsibility structures between the issuer, asset manager and other service providers are particularly important. This separation of functions minimizes potential conflicts of interest and strengthens control.

AMC providers are obliged to identify and manage potential conflicts of interest. This applies in particular to

• Transactions with related parties
• Proprietary trading activities of the persons involved
• Receipt of retrocessions or kickbacks
• Allocation of investment opportunities between different client portfolios

These governance standards form an essential protective shield for investors against possible abusive practices.

Investor protection for AMCs

Swiss regulation offers investors in AMCs several layers of protection. These include the strict separation of client assets from the issuer’s equity. This means that in the event of the issuer’s insolvency, the underlying assets of the AMC should remain protected.

If this is not possible, or only possible to a limited extent, there is a counterparty risk which must be disclosed to the investor. Note: Only works with an SPV setup. Not possible with an on-balance sheet solution with a bank.

Comprehensive appropriateness and suitability tests also apply. Providers must ensure that an AMC fits the investor’s risk profile, investment objectives and financial situation. Stricter requirements apply for private investors with limited experience.

If you have problems with AMC investments, there are various options available to you:

1. Direct complaint to the provider via established complaints procedures
2. Involvement of the Swiss ombudsman’s office for financial service providers
3. Complaints to FINMA in the event of suspected serious breaches of regulations
4. Civil law actions in the event of financial losses due to breaches of duty

Reading tip: Advantages of AMCs for investors

Tax aspects of AMCs

The tax treatment of AMCs in Switzerland differs from other forms of investment. The tax classification depends largely on the specific structure of the certificate and the underlying assets.

For international investors, specific regulations may apply depending on the double taxation agreement. Professional tax advice is recommended here, as the tax treatment can have a significant impact on the net return.

Reading tip: Costs and tax treatment of actively managed certificates

Practical tips for investors

1. Check the full transparency of the fee structure
2. Analyze the detailed investment strategy and investment restrictions
3. Evaluate the qualifications and track record of the asset manager
4. Ensure clear responsibilities between issuer and manager
5. Understand the specific risks, including issuer risk
6. Review the liquidity conditions and possible restrictions
7. Consider the tax implications for your personal situation

Ask critical questions if information is missing or appears incomplete. Providers that offer complete transparency signal seriousness and compliance.

Developments in AMC regulation

The regulatory landscape for AMCs in Switzerland has undergone a remarkable transformation since its introduction in 2007. With the implementation of FinSA and FinIA in 2020, investor protection was strengthened and transparency requirements increased. The SSPA recommendations have also contributed to greater standardization in the industry.

Looking back, it can be seen that regulatory development has always followed the balance between investor protection and market flexibility. The originally rather cautious regulation was gradually refined without stifling the innovative power of this investment instrument.

In the future, harmonization efforts with international standards are likely to become increasingly important. This could facilitate cross-border distribution and make AMCs accessible to a wider audience.

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Actively managed certificates (AMCs) are becoming increasingly popular with Swiss investors. They offer the advantage of active asset management in a flexible investment product. However, as with all financial products, there are costs that can affect the return. At the same time, the tax treatment of AMCs entails special features that are relevant to your investment decision.

The most important facts at a glance

• Management fees for AMCs are typically between 0.5% and 2% p.a. of the invested capital
• Performance fees usually amount to 10% to 20% of the excess return
• AMCs are subject to withholding tax of 35% on interest and dividends in Switzerland
• The total expense ratio (TER) can vary considerably depending on the provider and investment strategy
• Compared to ETFs, AMCs generally incur higher fees, but with the potential for better performance
• Tax reporting is provided by most Swiss AMC providers

Fee structure of AMCs

Here you will find a list of all fees charged on AMCs.

Management fees – the basis of the costs

The management fee forms the basis of the cost structure for AMCs. This annual fee is charged regardless of performance and amounts to between 0.5% and 2% of the invested capital, depending on the complexity of the investment strategy. Actively managed certificates with a focus on niche markets or special investment strategies tend to have higher management fees.

Performance fees – performance-related costs

A characteristic feature of AMCs is the charging of performance fees. These typically amount to between 10% and 20% of the excess return achieved over a pre-defined hurdle rate. The hurdle rate can be defined in absolute terms (e.g. 5%) or relative to an index (e.g. MSCI World).

This fee structure is intended to align the interests of investors and asset managers. However, pay attention to the precise definition of the calculation method, in particular the

• Calculation period (annual, quarterly)
• High water mark rules
• Definition of the benchmark or hurdle rate

Other cost components

In addition to the main fees, AMCs incur further costs that can increase the overall charge:

• Administration costs: additional fees for managing the certificate (0.1% to 0.5% p.a.)
• Trading costs: Costs incurred when rebalancing the portfolio
• Issue premium: One-off fee on subscription (0% to 3%)
• Redemption fees: Costs incurred when selling the AMC (0% to 2%)

Total expense ratio (TER) – the decisive factor

The total expense ratio (TER) is the most important key figure for a meaningful comparison of different AMCs. It includes all ongoing costs associated with the management of the certificate. Note, however, that performance fees and trading costs are often not included in the TER (as there is no uniformly regulated TER definition for AMCs as there is for UCITS funds) and must be taken into account separately.

Reading tip: AMC rules and regulations: What investors need to know

Tax treatment of AMCs in Switzerland

Here you will find further input on the tax treatment of AMCs in Switzerland.

Withholding tax

In Switzerland, AMCs are generally subject to withholding tax of 35% on distributed income such as interest and dividends. In the case of accumulating AMCs, withholding tax is levied on components classified as income, even if these are not distributed but accumulated in the product value. Domestic investors can generally reclaim this tax in full, provided they declare the income correctly.

Income and wealth tax

The following tax regulations apply to Swiss investors:

• Income tax: distributions and components declared as income (e.g. dividends or interest) are subject to income tax. Private capital gains are generally tax-free in Switzerland, provided there is no commercial trading activity.
• Wealth tax: The value of the AMC on the reporting date (usually December 31) is part of the taxable assets
• Capital gains: Private capital gains are generally tax-free, provided the investor is not classified as a professional securities trader

Tax reporting

An important advantage of Swiss AMCs is the detailed tax reporting provided by most providers. This supports you in making correct tax declarations and enables you to reclaim withholding tax in the best possible way. When choosing an AMC, make sure that such reporting is offered.

Reading tip: Explanation and insights into actively managed certificates

Cost comparison: AMCs and other investment products

Investment instrument	Typical management fees (p.a.)	Performance fees	Issue premium	Transfer tax (CH)	Special features
AMCs	0.5% – 2.0%	10% – 20%	0% – 3%	35% on earnings	Flexible structures, high adaptability
Active funds	1.0% – 2.5%	Rare	2% – 5%	35% on distributions	Regulated structures, higher investor protection
ETFs	0.1% – 0.5%	None	0% – 0.5%	35% on distributions	Passive strategy, high cost efficiency
Direct investments	None	None	Trading fees	Direct taxation depending on the security	Highest transparency, no management costs
Robo-Advisor	0.5% – 1.0%	Rarely	Mostly none	35% on returns	Digital management, often ETF-based
Structured products	Implicit in product structure	Partially	0% – 2%	35% on bond portion	Complex structures, different risk profiles

The cost efficiency of an investment product depends not only on the absolute fees, but must also be considered in relation to the expected return and the service offered. AMCs are positioned in the mid to upper price segment, but offer

• Access to specialized investment strategies
• Active management with customization options
• Tailor-made solutions
• Often direct contact with the asset manager

Reading tip: The advantages of AMCs for investors

Optimization opportunities for AMC costs and taxes

1. Careful comparison of providers: Compare the fee structures of different AMC providers carefully. The differences can be considerable and have a significant impact on your returns in the long term. Pay attention not only to the management fees, but to all cost components.
2. Check discounts for higher investment amounts: Many AMC providers offer fee discounts for higher investment amounts. Above a certain investment volume, you may be able to obtain individually negotiated conditions.
3. Tax-optimized investment strategy: You can minimize your tax burden with a tax-optimized investment strategy:
   • Be aware of the difference between accumulating and distributing AMCs
   • Check the optimum timing for purchases and sales with regard to your personal tax situation
   • Take advantage of tax benefits by paying into pillar 3a
4. Consider the investment horizon: With long-term investments, ongoing costs have a greater impact than one-off fees. Conversely, the entry and exit costs play a more important role for short-term investments. Adapt your selection accordingly to your investment horizon.
5. Regularly review the cost structure: The fee landscape for AMCs is constantly evolving. What seems cost-efficient today may be outdated tomorrow. A regular review of your existing AMCs is therefore recommended.

Conclusion

The fee and tax structure of AMCs is complex, but can be structured transparently. To make an informed investment decision, you should carefully examine all cost components and tax aspects and evaluate them in relation to the expected returns and your individual investment objectives. The higher costs of AMCs are particularly significant compared to passive investment products such as ETFs, but active management offers the opportunity for excess returns and more flexible adjustment options.

Your personal risk profile, tax optimization goals and need for personalized service should ultimately determine whether the higher costs of AMCs are worth it for you.

Reading Time: 11 minutes

Networking in the financial sector is about more than just making new contacts. It is about building stable and long-term client relationships based on trust and real added value. However, many financial advisors find it difficult to fully exploit this potential. The difference between a successful network and simply collecting contacts lies in the strategy and authentic cultivation of these relationships.

In this article, you will learn how you can secure your client relationships in the long term and advance your career through targeted and strategic networking. We give you practical tips for efficient networking – online and offline.

The most important things at a glance

• Networking is the key to long-term success: you can win and retain customers through targeted contact management and relationship building.
• Quality over quantity: A successful network does not consist of a mass of contacts, but of valuable, sustainable relationships.
• The 70-20-10 rule: 70% of your networking time should be spent helping others, 20% on self-marketing and 10% on seeking support.
• Combine online and offline networking: Take advantage of platforms such as LinkedIn and supplement them with face-to-face meetings at industry events.
• Strategy and preparation are key: Networking must be targeted and have a clear strategy to be successful.

Problem: Why does networking often not work?

Many financial advisors face the challenge of turning their networking efforts into measurable success. Often these efforts fail because fundamental mistakes are made that significantly limit the potential of networking.

A common mistake in networking is the assumption that more contacts automatically lead to more success. But this is a fallacy. Rather, it depends on the quality of the relationships. A small but valuable network of authentic and well-maintained contacts brings more in the long term than a large number of superficial connections.

Many financial advisors make the mistake of focusing their networking efforts mainly on direct sales. This often leads to the actual goal of networking – building trust and relationships – being neglected. Effective networking is based on genuine interest and a willingness to offer added value without expecting anything in return immediately. Networking should be seen as a long-term investment where trust is paramount.

Another problem is that many consultants do not have clear goals and strategies for their networking. Without a clear idea of what they want to achieve with their networking efforts, many get bogged down in random contacts that bring little benefit.

Successful networking requires precise planning:

• What kind of contacts should be made?
• How can added value be created for both sides?
• Which networking events or platforms are most promising?

Without clear answers to these questions, networking is often ineffective.

Reading tip: Customer acquisition for financial advisors – how to win new customers

The 70-20-10 rule: give more than you take

The 70-20-10 rule is a proven strategy for effective networking that aims to find the right balance between giving and taking. The rule states:

• 70% of networking time should be spent helping others
• 20% of time should be spent on self-promotion
• 10% of time should be spent asking others for support

This approach fosters trust and creates the basis for long-term, valuable relationships.

So how can this rule be put into practice? An example:

70% – Helping and providing value – most of the network should be focused on giving. This can be done in different ways:

• Sharing industry knowledge, providing helpful contacts or answering questions to help a contact with a current problem.
• In the financial sector, for example, a financial advisor could help an entrepreneur with tax optimization or recommend a competent tax consultant.

20 percent – self-marketing – part of the networking efforts should be devoted to self-marketing. This means putting yourself and your expertise in the foreground – without appearing pushy.

• A financial advisor could share successes in this context, for example an optimized investment strategy that has brought a client high returns.
• This moderate amount of self-marketing helps to raise your own profile and strengthen the trust of your contacts.

10 percent – asking for support – the smallest part of networking is accepting help from others.

• Financial advisors can ask their contacts for help in recommending new clients or partners.
• An example would be getting a referral for a potential new client because you are known as a trustworthy contact.

By consistently applying the 70-20-10 rule, financial advisors can build valuable, long-term relationships based on trust and reciprocity.

Recommended reading: How to start your career in the financial industry

Small talk: from icebreaker to deeptalk

Small talk is a valuable tool for getting a conversation started and creating a relaxed atmosphere. Especially when networking, the right small talk can help to build bridges and gain initial sympathy.

But which icebreakers are best suited and how do you master the transition from a casual conversation to in-depth topics?

• Specialist topic: At networking events in the financial sector in particular, it is a good idea to address a current, industry-specific topic. An example could be a new regulatory change in Switzerland or current developments on the financial markets.
• Current (non-political) topic: Current and neutral topics such as new technologies, a major sporting event or developments in the area of sustainability are often safe conversation starters.
• Funny, light topics: Humor can help ease tensions and create sympathy. However, make sure that the humor remains respectful and unobtrusive.

A relaxed and friendly attitude is important when starting small talk. Open questions are particularly suitable for drawing the other person into the conversation and making it easier to get started. Bringing up a neutral topic gives the other person the opportunity to relax and answer freely.

• Observations: “I have the impression that everyone here today is full of energy. Did you find the keynote so inspiring?”
• Compliments: “I’ve just listened to your presentation. The way you got to the heart of the topic was impressive.”
• Event-related questions: “How did you come to this conference? Is there anything you are particularly looking forward to today?”

Once the small talk has facilitated the introduction, it is perfectly legitimate to steer the conversation towards more in-depth topics – especially if the setting is suitable. This can be done in the context of a business meeting or in a confidential conversation.

You can use small talk to create a relaxed and positive basis for the rest of the conversation. Remain authentic, respectful and flexible in order to respond to your counterpart.

The right demeanor

Networking is not just about what you say, but also about how you present yourself. Authenticity, friendliness and competence play a key role in how you come across to others and whether you succeed in building long-term relationships. Your appearance should always be appropriate to the position without coming across as pushy or inauthentic.

Regardless of whether you are just starting out, an experienced consultant or an established figure in the financial sector: Authenticity is the key to success. You should never try to present yourself as someone you are not. People can sense when someone is not authentic and this can undermine trust and respect. An early career professional should emphasize their curiosity and willingness to learn, while an experienced consultant can highlight their expertise and achievements. Be aware of your role and behave accordingly.

Networking is a delicate balancing act between proactive engagement and restraint. The right timing is crucial: don’t start a conversation too brashly, but give your counterpart space. Choose topics that are of interest to both sides and make sure you don’t fall into selling or self-promotion too quickly. The trick is to offer added value without expecting anything in return.

Likeability is the door opener for any successful relationship. A friendly smile, genuine interest and a pinch of humor can work wonders. Make sure you always listen attentively and show interest in the person you are talking to. Humor – used in the right way – lightens up the conversation and makes you appear human and approachable. But don’t overdo it, because too much humor and lightness can come across as unprofessional.

It is important to know your own professional boundaries. Avoid addressing topics that you are not sufficiently informed about or say so openly. Otherwise this could undermine your credibility. Instead, look for topics where you can present yourself confidently and offer genuine insights. In the financial sector in particular, sound specialist knowledge is a confidence-building factor. Also, be prepared to listen and engage with the topics your counterpart raises.

A successful networker is always a good observer. Pay attention to the other person’s body language and reactions. Is the conversation pleasant or does the person feel uncomfortable? Show empathy by responding to the person’s mood and reacting flexibly to the conversation. This not only shows respect, but also helps you to steer the conversation in the right direction.

Reading tip: The essential tools for the financial advisor

Personal networking at events

Networking at trade fairs, conferences and industry events is one of the most effective ways to build long-term client relationships. Here you have the opportunity to get to know business partners and potential clients personally, build trust and demonstrate your expertise in a direct exchange. To ensure that networking at such events is successful, there are a few points to bear in mind.

• Before the event, make a list of the most important people or companies you would like to meet. Research in advance which topics and speakers will be represented at the event and which contacts could be relevant to your goals.
• Small talk is the door opener for further discussions. Start with a neutral topic such as the event itself, an interesting keynote or an industry trend.
• Once the small talk is underway, you can steer the conversation towards specialist topics . Be careful not to get into detailed technical discussions too quickly. Listen to the person you are talking to, ask open questions and slowly lead the conversation into greater depth.
• Only hand out business cards once a relevant contact has been made. Make sure that the exchange of contact details does not come across as intrusive, but takes place in the context of an appreciative conversation.
• After the event, it is important to keep in touch. Write a short, friendly message to the people you have met. Thank them for the conversation and follow up on a specific topic you discussed during the meeting.

Relevant trade fairs and industry events for financial advisors:

• FINANZ in Zurich: one of the largest financial fairs in Switzerland where financial advisors, investors and financial institutions meet. Here you can make valuable contacts and find out about current trends in the financial sector.
• Many companies regularly organize events for their customers or partners. These events are often more informal and provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen existing relationships and make new contacts.
• Local financial advisor get-togethers or similar meetings offer a relaxed atmosphere to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas and learn from each other.

Online platforms as a basis for networking

Social networks have become an integral part of networking in the financial sector. They enable connections that would otherwise not be possible, even across geographical borders.

A comparison of social networks

Platform	Contact person (professional/private)	Reach	Activity	Type of content
LinkedIn	Professional	Global, especially strong in international markets	High, especially for B2B	Posts, professional articles, LinkedIn Pulse, videos
Xing	Professional	Strong in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)	Medium, mainly active in DACH	Posts, professional articles
Facebook	Both	Global, particularly strong in the private sector	Very high, especially in the private sphere	Posts, group content, videos
Instagram	Both	Global, particularly strong among younger target groups	Very high, especially young users	Images, short videos, stories
TikTok	Private	Global, primarily with young target groups	Very high, primarily young users and trendsetters	Short, trendy videos

LinkedIn is the most important platform for professional networking, especially in the financial sector. It offers the opportunity to make targeted contacts, present professional successes and skills and share specialist knowledge. With its structured interface and tools such as the LinkedIn Sales Navigator, it is ideal for finding and cultivating potential customers and business partners.

Xing is particularly widespread in German-speaking countries. It offers similar functions to LinkedIn, but is more focused on the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). Xing is a good platform for networking in specialist groups and finding locally relevant contacts. However, visitor numbers are developing negatively, so this should not be the focus.

Facebook is less suitable for professional networking, as it is primarily a private social platform. Nevertheless, it can be useful to be active in special financial groups or business groups. It also offers the opportunity to interact more informally with contacts and share less formal content.

Instagram is not a typical platform for networking in the financial sector, but it can be used to build a personal brand. Financial advisors can share content here that provides insights into their day-to-day work, for example photos of events or visual content on financial topics (e.g. infographics). This can be particularly valuable for addressing younger target groups.

At first glance,TikTok does not appear to be a platform for financial advisors, but it has become increasingly important for addressing young target groups in particular. It is suitable for short information videos, for example to explain financial topics in an entertaining and easy-to-understand way. It can be the first contact with customers who will be your customers in 10 years’ time.

Tip: Connect with our experts!

The most important Swiss networks

In Switzerland, LinkedIn is the most important platform for professional networking. Specialized networks and industry associations are also important for making relevant contacts in the financial sector.

What content is suitable for sharing expert knowledge?

• Specialist articles and analyses: Share articles that deal with new developments in the financial sector. This could be the latest regulations in Switzerland, market overviews or forecasts on economic trends.
• Success stories: Use specific examples to show how you have helped your customers. This increases your credibility and gives other potential customers an insight into how you work.
• Informative videos and tutorials: Create short explanatory videos on complex financial topics. This content is not only easy to digest, but also offers added value for your network.
• Avoid too much self-promotion: Be careful not to advertise your services too much. This can act as a deterrent and weaken trust. Instead, concentrate on offering added value. Remember the 70-20-10 rule mentioned at the beginning.
• Factual and helpful comments: Interact with your network, offer added value, respectfully add more details and provide insights into your experience and expertise.

Through the targeted use of online platforms, you can expand your network and build valuable, long-term relationships.

Nurturing relationships for the long term

Building a network is only the first step – maintaining long-term contact is crucial to consolidating and expanding customer relationships. Active and thoughtful contact management ensures that you are remembered and that your connections are successful in the long term.

Stay in regular contact with your contacts without being intrusive. A good tactic is to remember important events or developments in the contact and use these as an opportunity to make contact. These can be birthdays, professional milestones or changes in the market environment. A short message on a topic that concerns your contact can also be very effective.

Avoid mass mailings. Instead, send personalized messages that address the contact’s specific interests and needs. An easy way to do this is to refer back to previous conversations or specific topics to pick up the conversation again.

Make sure every interaction adds value. This can be done by sharing a relevant article, offering a useful tip or inviting them to an interesting event. This way you will be remembered without giving the feeling that you are only looking for something in return.

Comment on and share your contacts’ posts on platforms such as LinkedIn. This shows interest and support for their activities without you having to send a direct message.

Long-term relationships need active and thoughtful nurturing. Use a mix of email, social media and face-to-face meetings to strengthen your contacts and always offer added value to be remembered positively.

Conclusion and FAQ

Long-term and trusting relationships are the key to success in the financial sector. Networking should not be seen as a purely tactical measure, but must always be based on genuine interest and mutual exchange.

The customer and their needs are the focus – not your own interest in closing a deal quickly. An honest and trusting network brings significantly more success in the long term than a superficial collection of contacts. Financial advisors should view their network as a long-term investment that is about building and maintaining valuable relationships and offering real added value.

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Are you fascinated by the world of finance and would you like to help other people achieve their financial goals? Then a career as a financial advisor could be just right for you. But what does everyday life look like and what are the tasks of a financial advisor?

This article sheds light on the diverse tasks of a financial advisor, shows typical daily routines and provides an insight into the qualifications required.

The most important facts in brief

• Financial advisors analyze the financial situation of their clients and develop tailor-made strategies for asset accumulation and risk management.
• The day-to-day work involves advising clients, financial analysis, administrative tasks and further training.
• Important qualifications include sound financial knowledge, strong communication skills and a feel for the needs of clients.
• The specialization options are diverse and range from pension advice to asset management for wealthy private clients.
• The profession is suitable for analytical and communicative personalities with a high level of integrity and an interest in the financial markets.

Typical tasks as a financial advisor

As a financial advisor in Switzerland, you will take on a variety of demanding tasks that go far beyond pure investment advice. Your day-to-day work is characterized by the responsibility to positively shape the financial future of your clients.

One of your core tasks is to carry out an in-depth financial analysis and needs assessment.

• You record the current financial situation of your customers
• Analyze income, expenditure and assets
• Determine their financial goals and individual risk appetite.

On this basis, you will develop customized financial strategies. To do this, you will create detailed financial plans and develop strategies to achieve short, medium and long-term goals. You will always take risk management and diversification aspects into account.

Another important area is advising on various financial products:

• Investments (e.g. shares, pensions, funds)
• Insurance solutions for various areas of life
• Pension solutions taking into account the Swiss three-pillar system

Ongoing customer care and acquisition round off your range of tasks. You maintain long-term relationships, regularly review financial strategies and adjust them as necessary. At the same time, you are always on the lookout for new clients to expand your business.

Reading tip: How do you become a financial advisor in Switzerland?

A day in the life of a financial advisor

The day-to-day work of a financial advisor in Switzerland is varied and dynamic. This is what a typical working day might look like:

In the morning, you prepare for upcoming client meetings. You analyze market developments and adapt your financial strategies accordingly.

Over the course of the day, you conduct several advisory meetings:

• Initial contacts with potential new customers
• Detailed analysis meetings on the financial situation
• Presentation of individual financial strategies
• Follow-up meetings to review existing plans

Between appointments, you will carry out administrative tasks such as documenting client meetings, drawing up financial plans and processing client inquiries.

The biggest challenge in everyday working life is often the balance between customer advice and administration. You have to find enough time to provide high-quality advice and at the same time meet all regulatory and administrative requirements.

You also have to keep up to date at all times: At the end of the day, you reserve time for further training to stay informed about current market trends and new financial products.

Qualifications and skills

A sound education in finance is essential. This can take the form of a degree in economics, business administration or specific training in finance.

In addition, certain certifications are an advantage in Switzerland:

• SAQ certification (Swiss Association for Quality)
• Chartered Financial Planner (CFP)
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

These certifications underline your expertise and create trust with potential clients.

In addition to the certifications already mentioned, the Dipl. Finanzberater IAF qualification is also a valuable qualification in the financial sector. This qualification is awarded by the IAF (Interessengemeinschaft Ausbildung im Finanzbereich). Our partner offers training courses for this certification, so that interested parties can obtain further information and support directly from us in order to achieve their professional goals. Feel free to contact us!

But it’s not just technical know-how that is important. Distinctive soft skills are also crucial for your success:

• You must be able to explain complex financial topics in an understandable way.
• Strong analytical skills are essential for developing customized financial strategies.
• Empathy for the client’s situation and needs is essential.
• As the guardian of your clients’ financial interests, you must radiate absolute reliability.

In the ever-changing world of finance, lifelong learning is essential. Regular training will help you to keep up to date with financial products and technologies. Also keep up to date with legal and regulatory changes.

Specialization options & forms of employment in financial consulting

There are specialization options and different forms of employment in financial consulting. Depending on your interests and strengths, you can concentrate on certain specialist areas and deepen your specialist knowledge:

• Pension advice
• Real estate financing
• Asset management for wealthy private clients
• Corporate finance
• Business succession

The type of advice can vary greatly depending on the employer or form of employment. For banks, the focus is often on in-house products and services, while insurance advisors primarily offer insurance and pension solutions. Independent financial advisors, on the other hand, can choose from a wider range of products and providers.

In terms of the form of employment , there is a choice between dependent employment and self-employment. Both variants have their advantages and disadvantages.

Reading tip: The essential tools for financial advisors

Who is a financial advisor suitable for?

The profession of financial advisor is demanding and not suitable for everyone. It requires a special combination of specialist knowledge, personal qualities and soft skills.

Ideally, you should be interested in financial markets and economic relationships. You should enjoy working with figures and at the same time be a strong communicator. A strong customer focus is essential, as success in this profession depends largely on the ability to build and maintain trusting relationships.

The most important skills include

• analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• excellent communication and presentation skills
• high integrity and ethical behavior
• Resilience and the ability to work under pressure
• Willingness to learn continuously

The profession is less suitable for people who have difficulty processing or communicating complex information. Those who do not like taking responsibility for the financial decisions of others or who cannot cope well with uncertainty and market fluctuations should also consider alternative career paths.

Reading Time: 10 minutes

As a financial advisor in Switzerland, you face a major challenge: how do you acquire clients in a highly regulated market? Client acquisition requires not only professional know-how, but also strategic skill and a deep understanding of the needs of your target group.

In this article, we present effective methods for acquiring new customers that take both traditional and innovative approaches into account. After reading it, you will know how to make the most of your network, use digital channels successfully and position yourself skillfully in the Swiss financial landscape.

The most important facts at a glance

• Customer acquisition in Switzerland requires a balanced mix of traditional and digital methods of customer acquisition.
• Networking, events and presentations are proven offline strategies, while a strong online presence, SEO and social media cover the digital side.
• Cold calling is subject to strict legal regulations in Switzerland. It is better to try to convince through expertise, customer care and co.
• A clear target group definition and niche strategy will help you stand out from the competition and strengthen your personal brand image.
• Continuously measure your acquisition success, optimize your strategies and adapt flexibly to market changes in order to successfully acquire customers in the long term.

Types of customer acquisition

As a financial advisor in Switzerland, you have various options for acquiring clients. It is important to know these and use them in a targeted manner in order to successfully acquire new clients.

Offline vs. online

The classic offline methods of customer acquisition are still relevant:

• Use of personal networks
• Participation in trade fairs and congresses
• Organizing presentations and workshops
• Local advertising (print, radio)

Digital strategies are becoming increasingly important:

• Establishing a professional internet presence
• Content marketing and search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media marketing (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram)
• Email marketing
• Online advertising (Google Ads, social media ads)

Forms of acquisition

The customer contacts you after becoming aware of your content/offer – this is also known as inbound marketing. This often happens through

• Recommendation from existing customers
• Findability in search engines
• interesting content on your website or in social networks

In contrast, outbound marketing involves actively approaching potential customers. This is highly regulated in Switzerland and includes

• Telephone contact
• Sending e-mails
• Direct mailings
• Personal contact at events

Legal framework conditions

In Switzerland, the regulation of cold calling has been tightened in recent years. Of particular importance are the amendments to the Telecommunications Act (TCA) and the Unfair Competition Act (UCA) of 2020.

Restrictions on cold calling

• Telephone: Cold calling is only permitted if the person contacted has given their prior consent or a business relationship exists.
• Email: Unsolicited advertising emails are only permitted if the recipient has consented or is a customer.
• SMS: The same applies to advertising by SMS.
• Letters: Direct mail is permitted unless there is a prohibition on the letterbox.

Reading tip: How do you become a financial advisor in Switzerland?

Traditional methods of customer acquisition

Despite increasing digitalization, traditional methods of customer acquisition are still relevant. They enable personal contact and the building of trust, which is particularly important in the financial sector.

The personal network is often the best starting point for customer acquisition:

• Family and friends: Let your immediate circle know about your services. Do not ask for orders directly, but ask for recommendations from people who could benefit from your expertise.
• Former colleagues and business partners: Reactivate old contacts and inform them about your new field of activity.
• Former networks: Use contacts with former fellow students or school friends.
• Local clubs and organizations: Get involved in your community to make new contacts.

Industry-specific events offer excellent networking opportunities:

• Present yourself at trade shows as a participant or exhibitor and tap into new contacts.
• Attend regular events organized by chambers of commerce or business associations.
• Use platforms/suitable event formats for cross-industry networking.

Position yourself as an expert with your own events:

• Organize lectures on current financial topics at local educational institutions or libraries.
• Offer practical training courses, e.g. on retirement provision or investment strategies.
• Combine traditional and digital methods with online seminars.
• Present yourself with an information stand at local markets or city festivals.

Use traditional media to reach your target group:

• Place advertisements or write guest articles on financial topics.
• Place advertisements in publications that your target group reads, e.g. business magazines.
• Distribute information material at strategic locations such as banks, insurance offices or local stores.
• Use local advertising space, especially in places where your target group frequently spends time.

Further ideas and methods

• Cooperation with complementary service providers: Work together with lawyers, tax consultants or estate agents and recommend each other.
• Sponsoring: Support local sports clubs or cultural events to raise your profile.
• Open day: Invite interested parties to your law firm to make your working methods transparent.
• Charity events: Organize or support charity events to show your social commitment and make new contacts.
• Customer advisory board: Set up an advisory board made up of satisfied customers who act as ambassadors for your services.

Important: With all these methods, it is important to appear authentic and value-oriented. The aim should be to convince potential customers of your expertise and build trust rather than appearing pushy. Combine these traditional approaches with digital strategies to achieve holistic and effective customer acquisition.

Digital strategies for customer acquisition

In Switzerland’s increasingly digitalized financial landscape, online strategies have become essential for financial advisors. An effective digital presence makes it possible to reach potential clients where they are looking for information and solutions. Here are the most important digital methods for client acquisition:

Create a strong online presence:

• Create a professional and user-friendly website.
• Create an informative blog with regular posts.
• Develop target group-specific landing pages.

Social media marketing plays a central role in digital customer acquisition. Use platforms such as LinkedIn for B2B contacts and professional networking, Facebook for a broader target group approach and Instagram to reach younger target groups with visual content. Don’t forget the importance of Xing in German-speaking countries. PS: Follow us!

• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

Content marketing and search engine optimization (SEO) are other key components:

• Create high-quality, relevant content that showcases your expertise.
• Optimize your content for relevant search terms.
• Build backlinks from trusted sites.
• Use different formats such as blog posts, infographics and videos.

Online advertising and automated acquisition can significantly increase your reach:

• Use Google Ads to target ads to relevant search queries.
• Use the precise targeting options of social media ads.
• Use retargeting strategies to address website visitors again.
• Automate email campaigns for effective lead nurturing.

Develop acquisition strategy & priorities

An effective acquisition strategy is the key to success for financial advisors in Switzerland. Here’s a detailed guide on how to develop and prioritize your strategy.

Think in channels

Identify the appropriate channels for your offering and target audience:

• Target group analysis: create detailed personas of your ideal customers. Take into account age, profession, income, life situation and financial goals.
• Media usage behavior: Research which media your target group prefers to use. (Examples: Young professionals: Instagram, LinkedIn, financial apps; Established business people: LinkedIn, trade magazines, business podcasts; Affluent seniors: local newspapers, trade fairs, personal networks)

Tailor your message, formats and content to each channel:

• LinkedIn: share professional articles and industry insights
• Instagram: Use visual storytelling for financial topics
• Local newspapers: Place ads or offer expert columns.

Combine different channels to achieve greater reach. Ensure a consistent message across all channels.

Master and expand acquisition strategies

Make a list of your current strengths and weaknesses in customer acquisition. And focus on improving your strongest acquisition methods first.

Develop a structured plan to learn new strategies and attend courses and workshops on sales techniques and digital marketing. Test new strategies on a small scale and analyze the results before implementing them fully.

Use your own network

Regularly provide your network with useful information and insights without selling directly. Social media and your own blog posts are excellent ways to do this.

Build up your expert status:

• Give talks at local events.
• Publish specialist articles in industry magazines.
• Share your knowledge in LinkedIn groups or local business networks.

Develop a structured program to reward existing customers for referrals . Also schedule regular meetings with key contacts without being intrusive.

Local focus

Strengthen your regional presence first before thinking bigger. Use Google My Business and optimize your profile with up-to-date information, photos and regular posts. Use local search terms on your website and create location-specific landing pages.

Local advertising can hit the spot:

• Google Ads: Use location-based ads
• Meta Ads: Target Swiss regions and cities
• Local print media: place advertisements in local newspapers

Social commitment is sometimes highly valued regionally:

• Sponsoring local sports clubs or cultural events
• Participation in community or city festivals
• Offer free financial literacy workshops in local libraries.

Local partnerships for win-win situations: Collaborating with other local businesses such as lawyers or real estate agents to provide mutual referrals.

Quality and communication

Always ensure good quality to keep your clients satisfied by strengthening your expertise through continuous training:

• Regularly attend professional conferences and seminars.
• Complete recognized certifications.
• Keep up to date with current financial trends and regulations.

Aim for industry awards and certifications. Apply for relevant awards in the financial advisory industry.

Demonstrate your successes through transparent communication.

• Publish case studies and success stories on a regular basis.
• Publish client references and testimonials on your website and social media.

Actively manage reviews without being intrusive:

• Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, Trustpilot or industry-specific platforms.
• Respond quickly and professionally to all reviews, including negative ones.
• Promote this subtly.

Recommended reading: Effective Networking: how to ensure long-term Customer Relationships

Building trust and customer loyalty

Building trust and customer loyalty are of central importance when it comes to financial topics.

Discretion and reliability form the basis for a successful customer relationship. To gain the trust of customers, it is important to demonstrate competence and integrity from the outset. During discussions, you should actively listen in order to understand the individual needs and goals of your customers. Show empathy and avoid presenting hasty solutions. Instead, develop customized proposals that are tailored to the customer’s specific situation.

Explain the advantages of your service using concrete examples and scenarios. Explain complex financial concepts in understandable language and show how your advice creates added value for the customer. Transparency is the top priority: Inform your customers clearly about possible risks and costs.

Effective communication and aftercare are crucial for long-term customer loyalty. Establish regular points of contact with your existing customers without being intrusive. A quarterly update may be appropriate, but should be tailored to individual customer preferences. Use this opportunity to provide information on relevant market developments and to review the customer’s financial strategy.

Note: Be aware of the legal framework: Unsolicited contact for advertising purposes is strictly regulated in Switzerland. Make sure that you have your customers’ consent for regular communication.

In multilingual Switzerland, it is an advantage if you can offer your services in several national languages. However, the effort and potential return must be clearly weighed up and is usually not practical for many. You should also take into account regional cultural differences in your communication, pricing, etc. What is considered appropriate in Zurich may be perceived differently in Geneva or Lugano. Sensitive and appropriate communication makes a significant contribution to building trust.

Ultimately, successful customer loyalty is based on consistency and reliability. Keeping promises, keeping appointments on time and offering high-quality advice.

Reading tip: The essential tools for financial advisors

Three tips to stand out

In the highly competitive Swiss financial advisory sector, it is important to stand out from the competition. The following three tips can help you do just that:

Tip 1: Develop a niche strategy

With a niche strategy, you position yourself as an expert for a specific target group. One example is positioning yourself as an advisor specifically for families.

• Define your target group precisely: young families, large families, patchwork families or multi-generational households.
• Analyze the specific needs of this group: retirement provision, education financing, real estate financing or intergenerational wealth transfer.

Develop tailor-made solutions and communicate them in a targeted manner. For example, offer a “family finance package” that covers the following aspects:

• Budget planning for the growing family
• Strategies for financing the children’s education
• Cover for the family in the event of illness or death
• Strategies for long-term wealth accumulation for the whole family

To set yourself apart from the competition, focus on the unique selling points of your offer. This could be special expertise in Swiss family law or innovative financial products specifically for families. Communicate your unique selling points clearly and consistently across all channels.

Build a personal brand image that reflects your expertise and your focus on families. This can include

• A family-friendly presence on social media
• Regular articles on family finance topics in local media
• Organization of family finance days or workshops for parents and children

Tip 2: Networks and collaborations

Effective networking and strategic cooperation can significantly increase your reach and credibility:

Actively participate in relevant events such as the“Swiss Finance Forum” or the meetings of the“Swiss Financial Planners Organization“. Give presentations or moderate panel discussions on your area of expertise.

Build up a network of complementary service providers. For a Family Financial Planner, these could be

• Lawyers who specialize in family law
• Real estate agents who specialize in family real estate
• Insurance experts for family insurance
• Tax advisors with expertise in family taxation

Organize joint information events or create co-branded content.

Form partnerships between experienced and young advisors. This allows you to combine traditional and modern approaches and appeal to different generations of customers.

Work together with Swiss financial influencers or local personalities. These can be well-known business journalists, successful entrepreneurs or experts on family issues. Joint webinars, podcast episodes or social media campaigns can significantly increase your reach.

Tip 3: Measure and optimize your acquisition strategy

A data-driven approach is crucial for long-term success:

Implement a robust tracking system for key metrics such as:

• Number of new customers per month
• Conversion rate from prospects to customers
• Average customer value
• Customer retention rate
• Referral rate

Use tools such as Google Analytics for your website and CRM systems for your customer management.

Conclusion and outlook

Successful customer acquisition requires a versatile and future-oriented approach. Key strategies include developing a niche specialization, building a strong digital presence, intensive networking and integrating innovative consulting formats.

A balanced mix of traditional and digital methods is crucial to appeal to different customer groups and to be able to react flexibly to market changes.
Don’t forget to nurture your existing customer base. Maintain regular contact, offer added value and continuously adapt your services to their needs.

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The tools and technologies required to start a new business can be overwhelming, even for the most experienced financial advisors. With so many options covering different aspects of a consultant’s work, where do you start?

Financial advisors need different software and tools to manage their day-to-day operations. Let’s take a look at the most commonly used software for financial advisors:

Custodian

Financial advisors need a custodian to manage their clients’ assets and execute and settle trades, but not all custodians are the same. Custodians are also referred to as depositories. When choosing a custodian, there are several important considerations: access, minimum amounts, available products, customer support, digital experiences, automation, costs, and customer experience.

Portfolio management software

A portfolio management software helps financial advisors manage client portfolios efficiently and accurately. This software allows for monitoring investments, analyzing risks, and tracking performance in real-time. Most portfolio management software also generates performance reports, which are an important tool for showing clients how their portfolios are performing over time. With this tool, advisors can discuss goals and needs throughout the course of their relationship with clients.

CRM and client portals

A CRM system is important for keeping track of clients and their progress. Such a system allows all client information to be stored centrally and accessed at any time, significantly improving the quality of advice. Through the CRM tool, the advisor can track client interactions, preferences, and historical data to provide tailored and personalized advice.

Client portal software enables clients to access their accounts, transfer funds, and view their holdings and costs. The software can vary in terms of technology and features.

Reading tip: How to become a financial advisor in Switzerland?

Compliance and document retention/archiving

Every financial advisor must comply with legal and regulatory requirements. This includes various areas such as data protection, anti-money laundering (AML), and financial reporting. One key aspect is adherence to anti-money laundering guidelines (AML), where financial advisors must ensure they know their clients (Know Your Customer, KYC) in order to detect and prevent suspicious activities.

Data protection is another essential element of compliance. In Switzerland, financial advisors must ensure that data protection regulations are adhered to in accordance with the Swiss Data Protection Act. Compliance software helps financial advisors meet these and other regulatory requirements efficiently. Such tools offer monitoring systems that identify potential risks and trigger alerts when suspicious activities are detected. Additionally, they enable comprehensive documentation and reporting.

At Everon

At Everon, we strive to make independent financial advising more efficient. We have combined many of the technologies listed here into one platform. On an intuitive, integrated platform, advisors can open accounts, manage portfolios, and create reports—at a fraction of the ever-increasing technology costs. We can help you streamline operations, reduce overhead, and improve the client experience. To schedule an appointment, contact us.

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Are you fascinated by the world of finance and would you like to help other people achieve their financial goals? The profession of financial advisor in Switzerland offers exciting opportunities, but also requires in-depth knowledge and continuous training.

Here you can find out what steps you need to take to become a financial advisor in Switzerland, what qualifications you need and what prospects are open to you.

The most important facts at a glance

• Training to become a financial advisor in Switzerland requires basic commercial training and several years of professional experience in the financial sector.
• Recognized qualifications such as “financial planner with a federal certificate” are essential for starting and continuing your career.
• Continuous further training and specialization are essential in order to be successful in this dynamic professional field.
• The legal framework, in particular the Financial Services Act (FinSA) and the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA), has a significant impact on the activities of financial advisors.
• Financial advisors can be employed or self-employed , although both models have their advantages and disadvantages.

Requirements and basic qualifications

To work as a financial advisor in Switzerland, you need a solid foundation. Basic vocational training forms the foundation.

Typically, a commercial apprenticeship with a focus on banking or a comparable qualification is required. Alternatively, a degree in economics can also provide an entry into financial consulting.

In addition to formal education, professional experience plays a decisive role. As a rule, 2-5 years of practical experience in the financial services sector is expected. This time is valuable to develop a deep understanding of financial products, market dynamics and client relationships.

The soft skills required should not be underestimated. As a financial advisor, you should have excellent communication skills to explain complex financial topics in an understandable way. Analytical thinking, integrity and the ability to build trusting relationships are equally important. In addition, resilience and a willingness for lifelong learning are essential to be successful in this dynamic professional field.

Reading tip: How to get ahead in the Financial Industry as a young Professional

Training paths in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there are various ways to train as a financial advisor. The “Interessengemeinschaft Ausbildung im Finanzbereich (IAF)” plays a central role in this. It offers a wide range of recognized courses and seminars tailored to the needs of the financial sector.

One common route is to qualify as a “financial planner with a federal certificate”. This title is awarded after passing a state examination and is considered a solid basis for a career in financial consulting. There are also options for specialization, such as “Certified Investment Advisor IAF” or “Certified Financial Advisor IAF”.

Higher professional examinations (HFP) are available for those seeking even more comprehensive training. These lead to titles such as “Certified Financial and Investment Expert” or “Certified Financial Analyst and Asset Manager”.

It is important to note that all these training paths must meet the legal requirements . The certifications are in line with the Financial Services Act (FinSA) and the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA), which ensures the quality and relevance of the training.

Examinations and certifications

In Switzerland, the path to becoming a financial advisor leads through state-recognized examinations. These examinations ensure that prospective advisors have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide their clients with professional advice.

The organization of these examinations is often in the hands of professional associations, educational institutions and other recognized institutions. One important player is the Interessengemeinschaft Ausbildung im Finanzbereich (IAF), which works closely with the industry to ensure practical and relevant examinations.

Interestingly, it is also possible to take exams privately in Switzerland. This can be an attractive option for career changers or people with extensive practical experience. However, it is important that the private exams meet the same high standards as the official exams.

Reading tip: Portfolio rebalancing – why it’s so important

Degrees and titles

In the Swiss financial advisory industry, there are various recognized degrees and titles that can pave the way to a successful career.

• A solid entry into the industry is the“Certified Investment Advisor IAF” title. It provides basic knowledge of asset management and investment advice and is valued by many employers.
• The “Certified Financial Advisor IAF” title goes one step further. It certifies comprehensive knowledge in all areas of financial consulting and qualifies for demanding positions in banks, insurance companies and independent consulting firms.
• A particularly prestigious qualification is the“Financial Planner with Federal Certificate“. It is awarded after a demanding federal examination and certifies in-depth knowledge of financial planning, pensions and asset management.
• There are also other relevant qualifications that enable specialization. These include, for example, the“certified finance and investment expert” or the“certified bank economist HF“.
• For internationally oriented advisors, the “Certified International Wealth Manager” (CIWM) certificate may also be of interest.

Choosing the right diploma depends on your personal career goals and interests.

Legal framework

The legal framework for financial advisors in Switzerland is largely shaped by the Financial Services Act (FinSA) and the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA). These laws are intended to strengthen investor protection and ensure the competitiveness of the Swiss financial center.

The FinSA lays down rules of conduct for financial service providers. It defines requirements for the education and training of advisors and obliges them to inform their clients transparently about the risks and costs of financial products. In addition, advisors must check the appropriateness and suitability of investments for their clients.

The FinIA regulates the licensing and supervision of financial institutions. It defines various categories of financial service providers and sets out corresponding requirements.

These laws have far-reaching implications for the activities of financial advisors and require ongoing training and compliance with strict ethical standards. Advisors must adapt their processes and documentation to meet the compliance requirements.

Although these regulations may seem challenging at first glance, they also offer opportunities. They promote the professionalization of the industry and strengthen clients’ trust in financial advice. For well-trained and ethical advisors, they can even represent a competitive advantage.

Reading tip: Saving taxes in Switzerland: optimizing investments

Types of profession and earnings

As a financial advisor in Switzerland, you have the choice between employment and self-employment. Both models have their advantages and disadvantages.

• Employed financial advisors have a fixed basic salary, social benefits and often further training opportunities. They benefit from their employer’s infrastructure and client base. However, they are bound by the company’s guidelines and products.
• Self-employed financial advisors have more freedom in their choice of products and services. They can work more flexibly and have the opportunity to earn a higher income. However, they also bear the entrepreneurial risk and have to take care of customer acquisition, administration and training themselves.

Earning potential varies depending on experience, qualifications and type of work. Here is a rough overview:

Position	Annual salary (CHF)
Entry level	60’000 – 80’000
Experienced consultant	80’000 – 120’000
Senior consultant / team leader	120’000 – 180’000
Independent consultant	80’000 – 250’000

The career prospects are varied. With increasing experience and specialization, you can advance to management positions or specialize in certain client groups or investment strategies .

Current challenges and future trends

The financial advisory industry is undergoing profound change, which is strongly characterized by the influence of the FinTech industry. Robo advisors and AI-based analysis tools are changing the way in which financial advice is provided. This development presents advisors with the challenge of adapting their services and offering added value that goes beyond automated solutions.

To be successful in this environment, financial advisors must increasingly develop digital skills. These include the confident use of financial software, the ability to interpret big data and a basic understanding of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. At the same time, the human element – empathy, building trust and complex problem solving – remains a decisive advantage over purely digital solutions.

Future developments in financial advice are likely to be a hybrid of human expertise and technological support . Personalized, data-based advice will gain in importance. Topics such as sustainable investing and the integration of ESG (environmental, social and governance) criteria into investment strategies will also become increasingly important.

For financial advisors, this means that lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to new technologies and market trends are essential.

Reading tip: Diversification as the key to minimizing risks in the portfolio

Practical tips for starting your career

Here are some practical tips to help you get started in the industry:

1. Networking is invaluable in the financial sector. Use industry events, specialist conferences and online platforms such as LinkedIn to make contacts. Become a member of relevant professional associations such as the Swiss Financial Analysts Association (SFAA) or the Swiss Structured Products Association (SSPA). These often offer valuable networking opportunities and access to the latest industry information.
2. Internships and trainee programs are excellent stepping stones into financial consulting. They offer practical insights into everyday working life and the opportunity to make initial contacts with potential employers. Many Swiss banks and financial service providers offer structured programs for university graduates. Take advantage of this opportunity to put your skills to the test and gain valuable experience.
3. The importance of continuing education cannot be overstated. The world of finance is constantly changing, be it through new regulations, market developments or technological innovations. Stay on the ball by regularly attending specialist seminars, reading specialist literature and keeping up to date with current trends. Many employers actively support the further training of their employees – take advantage of these opportunities.
4. Also think about specializing. Whether it’s sustainable investment, pension provision or digital asset management – a niche can help you stand out from the competition and establish yourself as an expert.
5. Ultimately, perseverance is required. The path to becoming a successful financial advisor is not always straightforward. Stay persistent, learn from setbacks and stay true to your goals. With the right attitude and continued commitment, you can build a fulfilling career in financial consulting.