Swiss private bankers talk neutrality

Swiss Finance Minister Karin Keller-Sutter is one of the keynote speakers at the Swiss Private Banking Day 2023 in Basel. (foto: VAV/ABPS)

16.05.2023

This year's Swiss private banking day on 22 June in Basel is dedicated to Swiss neutrality. What role will it play in the future in a polarised world? And what is the significance of neutrality in the financial sector?

 

Neutrality is an important pillar of Switzerland’s foreign affairs and security policy. Paired with other typically Swiss features such as political independence, a strong currency and an esteemed rule of law, it contributes to our country’s open and successful foreign trade policy.

However, amidst a battle between global powers and value systems, free trade is increasingly under pressure. More and more Switzerland finds itself pushed to take sides politically and economically. This poses great challenges for our country, its international-oriented economy and particularly its financial sector. Switzerland is called to draw the best possible conclusions.

Can we still consider the neutrality principle eligible? What about free trade in a politically and militarily fragmented world order? What do these developments mean for our export-oriented economy and especially for the Swiss financial centre?

The prominent speakers include: Federal Councillor Karin Keller-Sutter, former German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, National Councillor Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter and Professor Simon Evenett from the University of St. Gallen. The introduction and closing remarks will be made by the presidents of the two Swiss private banking associations: Philipp Rickenbacher, Chairman VAV-ABG, und Grégoire Bordier, Chairman ABPS-VSPB.

Ask here for registration: Private Banking Day - Thursday, 22 June 2023