Panorama

Sixteen years have gone by since conversations about blockchain first began, highlighting this technology's signature feature as an encrypted digital ledger that is both immutable and unfalsifiable. During this period, the financial landscape has been in constant flux. The world of blockchain keeps surprising us, with banks broadening their crypto offerings, companies increasing their use of the technology, the growth of decentralized finance, and the emergence of Bitcoin funds. 

Switzerland has already established itself as a global hub for fintech, the most innovative and emerging sector in the financial industry. It has successfully regulated blockchain technology and the crypto ecosystem, attracting hundreds of startups. It has also created a testing ground for new financial ventures. Switzerland is playing a pioneering role.

An important point: Switzerland is the country in the world with the highest number of sustainability-oriented start-ups in relation to its population. In addition, sustainable investments are supported by financial industry collaboration, government and institutional involvement, and the regulatory framework. In 2021, the volume of invested assets came close to 2 trillion Swiss francs.

Switzerland invests 3% of its GDP in research and development (R&D). One-third comes from the public sector, which often turns to the university ecosystem. This is where groundbreaking research and startups emerge in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medicine, and finance.

Reputation and attractiveness, security and trust, discretion and responsibility... Swiss banking, with its centuries of experience, is a sector in constant evolution. A key element of its internationally renowned, reliable, and innovative financial ecosystem is the regulatory framework.

Over the past fifteen years, the number of the largest private banking institutions in Switzerland, those managing over CHF 100 billion, has doubled. A program to enhance transparency and international collaboration has helped consolidate the sector.

The first Swiss franc was issued 174 years ago, but the foundations of one of the world's most stable currencies were laid in the early 20th century. The Swiss franc is, along with gold, one of investors' favorite assets. 

It tops the main international rankings in economic prosperity, competitiveness, government effectiveness and political stability. Switzerland has discovered the formula to stay on the podium and go further: it is a country that attracts and retains an essential ingredient - talent.

When we talk about the perfect recipe, there are always a series of ingredients that must be carefully selected to achieve the best result. BBVA in Switzerland is launching a series of 10 lessons that invite us to review the milestones achieved by Switzerland as a global power in well-being, the economy and innovation.

BBVA Switzerland celebrates fifty years since it opened its doors in the city of Zurich, the world capital of private banking. Since then, the bank has focused on financial excellence to bring opportunities and solutions adapted to the evolution of the world and of future generations.