The rate on deposits at the Swiss National Bank (SNB) is currently -0.75%. And while taking the rate further into negative territory is not the base case scenario, it cannot be excluded, according to some economists at the bank UBS. © Marekusz | … [Read more...]
News and Features
Coronavirus: drop in revenue could leave Swiss hospitals with 3 billion loss
In Switzerland, the finances of hospitals are similar to those of a business. If revenues fall, as they did during the coronavirus pandemic, profits can turn into losses. © Francisco Javier Zea Lara | Dreamstime.com During the recent phase of … [Read more...]
Italy set to reopen borders with Switzerland from 3 June 2020
Italy is preparing to reopen its borders with the rest of Europe, according to the newspaper La Repubblica. © Ellesi | Dreamstime.com A draft law on new rules was published on 15 May 2020 by the Italian Council of Ministers. It provides for … [Read more...]
Most want masks made compulsory on Swiss public transport, suggests survey
More than two thirds are in favour of making masks compulsory on Switzerland's public suggests a survey run by Tamedia, according to the newspaper Le Matin. © Artzzz | Dreamstime.com In addition, the survey showed widespread support for … [Read more...]
Religious gatherings allowed to restart in Switzerland
On 20 May 2020, Switzerland's Federal Council decided it would allow religious services to take place again from 28 May 2020. © Nuvisage | Dreamstime.com Faith communities should be able to resume their common religious life, said the … [Read more...]
Guides

8 things you must do if you’re running a Swiss business
Brought to you by Winbiz online accounting for Swiss businesses. Once a business is established, there are many ongoing administrative tasks required by law. The main ones are covered in this article. The first few relate to employees and … [Read More...]

15 things you should know about Swiss health insurance
It's health insurance season. Average premiums are increasing in 2018. Compulsory basic Swiss health insurance can generally only be changed once a year. To change you must notify your current provider by 30 November. This article explains the basics … [Read More...]
Activities

Places to go for early season skiing in Switzerland
Mention skiing in November and it is likely to draw blank expressions, or comments like: "It’s too early, there will be no snow". While this is true for some resorts not all ski domains were created equal. A recent study shows that in 2015, snow … [Read more...]

Five gorgeous Swiss parks for contemplating autumn splendor
By Bill Harby Whether you prefer thickets of grand old trees, a formal English garden, or a pocket park, these five urban green spaces offer colourful ways to rustle through autumn leaves. Geneva: Park La Grange One minute you’re in bustling … [Read more...]

The Swiss town on the 2019 New York Times’ places-to-visit list
Every year the New York Times assembles a list of 52 recommended places to visit. This year it lists Vevey at number 49. 2019 is a big year for Vevey. It is the year of the Unesco-recognized Fête des Vignerons, an event held every 20 to 25 … [Read more...]