Wealth & Investing

Build long-term wealth and optimize your finances in Switzerland

Long-term GrowthTax Optimization
25%
Global Cross-border AUM
0%
Capital Gains Tax (Private)
CHF 7,258
Max 3rd Pillar (2025)
Safe Haven
Swiss Franc

Building Wealth in Switzerland

Switzerland offers excellent opportunities for wealth building through tax-advantaged retirement savings (3rd pillar), low-cost investment platforms, and professional wealth management services. Understanding the tax implications and available options is key to optimizing your financial growth.

Start with tax-advantaged savings, then explore broader investment opportunities based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Investment Account Types

3rd Pillar (Pillar 3a)

Tax-advantaged retirement savings

Max Contribution:
CHF 7,056 annually (2024)
  • Tax deductible contributions
  • Tax-free growth
  • Restricted withdrawals

Taxable Investments

Flexible investing without restrictions

Max Contribution:
No limit
  • No contribution limits
  • Flexible withdrawals
  • Wealth tax applies

2nd Pillar (Occupational)

Employer pension fund

Max Contribution:
Based on salary
  • Employer contributions
  • Mandatory participation
  • Limited investment choice

Getting Started with Investing

1

Establish Banking First

Open a Swiss bank account before starting investments

Complete first
2

Understand Tax Implications

Learn about wealth tax, income tax on dividends, and 3rd pillar benefits

1-2 weeks research
3

Start with 3rd Pillar

Maximize tax benefits with retirement savings first

Immediate priority
4

Choose Investment Platform

Select between automated wealth management or DIY trading

1 week comparison
5

Begin Regular Investing

Set up automatic contributions and start building wealth

Ongoing

Recommended Investment Platforms

Disclosure: These are affiliate recommendations. We may receive compensation if you sign up through these links, but this doesn't affect our honest recommendations.

Recommended

TrueWealth

Digital Wealth Management

Automated investing with ETF portfolios, tax optimization, and professional management. Perfect for hands-off investors.

Referral Code: Use code 21fc665f when signing up for benefits.

Minimum
CHF 0
Fees
0.5-0.75% annually
  • No minimum investment
  • Low fees (0.5-0.75%)
  • Automated rebalancing
  • Tax-loss harvesting
  • Swiss-domiciled ETFs
Learn More
DIY Trading

DEGIRO

DIY Investment Platform

Low-cost trading platform for self-directed investors. Access to global markets with competitive trading fees.

Referral Code: Use code E7FCBF20 when signing up for benefits.

Minimum
CHF 0
Fees
From CHF 2 per trade
  • Low trading fees
  • Global market access
  • Wide range of instruments
  • Research tools
  • Mobile app
Learn More
Tax Benefits

Viac

3rd Pillar (3a) Savings

Digital 3rd pillar solution for retirement savings with investment options and maximum tax benefits.

Referral Code: Use code NeArCzG when signing up for benefits.

Minimum
CHF 25/month
Fees
0.45-0.68% annually
  • Tax deductible up to CHF 7,056
  • Investment in ETFs
  • Low management fees
  • Flexible contributions
  • Mobile app
Learn More

Disclosure: These are affiliate recommendations. We may receive compensation if you sign up through these links, but this doesn't affect our honest recommendations.

Advanced Investment Strategies

For established residents with significant assets, consider these advanced wealth management approaches.

Portfolio Diversification

  • Geographic Diversification:

    Spread investments across Swiss, European, US, and emerging markets

  • Asset Class Mix:

    Balance stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities, and alternative investments

  • Currency Hedging:

    Protect against currency fluctuations with hedged ETFs or currency forwards

Important Tax Considerations

  • 3rd pillar contributions are tax-deductible up to CHF 7,056 annually
  • Wealth tax applies to total net worth (rates vary by canton)
  • Dividend income is subject to income tax
  • Capital gains on private investments are generally tax-free
  • Consider tax-efficient ETFs domiciled in Switzerland

Professional Financial Advice

When to Consider:

  • Portfolio value >CHF 500,000
  • Complex tax situations
  • International assets
  • Estate planning needs

Types of Advisors:

  • Independent financial advisors
  • Private banking services
  • Fee-only financial planners
  • Tax optimization specialists

Typical Fees:

  • Asset management: 0.5-1.5% annually
  • Financial planning: CHF 200-500/hour
  • Private banking: 1-2% annually

Tax Implications of Investing

Important Tax Considerations

Wealth Tax:

  • Applied to total net worth annually
  • Rates vary by canton (0.1-1.0%)
  • Includes all assets: investments, property, cash

Income Tax on Investments:

  • Dividends and interest are taxable income
  • Capital gains generally tax-free for private investors
  • Withholding tax may apply to foreign investments

Tax Optimization Strategies:

  • Maximize 3rd pillar contributions for tax deductions
  • Consider tax-efficient ETFs domiciled in Switzerland
  • Time investment purchases and sales strategically
  • Understand double taxation treaties for foreign investments
  • Consider professional tax advice for complex situations

Long-term Financial Planning

Beyond Basic Retirement Savings

Estate Planning:

  • Swiss inheritance laws
  • Will and testament requirements
  • International estate considerations
  • Trust structures for complex estates

Education Planning:

  • Swiss education costs
  • International school fees
  • University savings strategies
  • Education investment accounts

Property Investment:

  • Swiss real estate market
  • Mortgage requirements
  • Rental property considerations
  • International property investments

Ready to Start Investing?

Make sure you have your banking sorted first, then start with tax-advantaged 3rd pillar savings before exploring other investment options.

Banking Guide FirstMobile Guide