The Swiss Advantage
Switzerland has long been synonymous with stability, privacy, and financial sophistication. For businesses seeking a European base with world-class protections, Switzerland offers unique advantages that few jurisdictions can match.
Political and Economic Stability
Switzerland's political neutrality and economic stability are legendary. The country has maintained peace and prosperity for over 200 years, providing businesses with a predictable operating environment.
Key Stability Factors
Currency: The Swiss Franc (CHF) is considered a safe-haven currency
Inflation: Consistently low, averaging under 1% over the past decade
Rule of Law: Independent judiciary with strong property rights
Political System: Direct democracy with high citizen participation
Privacy Protections
Swiss privacy laws are among the strongest in the world. The country's data protection framework predates GDPR and in many ways exceeds it.
Business Privacy
Banking Secrecy: While reduced, significant protections remain for legitimate businesses
Company Information: Bearer shares have been abolished, but nominee arrangements provide privacy
Data Protection: Federal Data Protection Act provides robust framework
Attorney-Client Privilege: Strong protections for legal communications
Tax Considerations
Switzerland's tax system is more complex than offshore jurisdictions but offers significant planning opportunities.
Federal and Cantonal Taxes
Corporate tax rates vary by canton, ranging from approximately 12% to 24% combined (federal + cantonal). Certain cantons like Zug offer particularly favorable rates for qualifying companies.
Holding Company Benefits
Swiss holding companies benefit from the participation exemption, effectively eliminating tax on dividends received from subsidiaries and capital gains on qualifying participations.
European Market Access
While not an EU member, Switzerland has extensive bilateral agreements providing access to European markets.
Key Agreements
Free Movement: Swiss citizens can work in EU countries and vice versa
Schengen Area: Part of the borderless zone
Trade: Comprehensive trade agreements with EU
Financial Services: Equivalence determinations for market access
Company Types
GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung)
Similar to an LLC, suitable for smaller operations:
Minimum capital: CHF 20,000
At least one managing director must be Swiss resident
Suitable for most small to medium businesses
AG (Aktiengesellschaft)
The Swiss corporation, ideal for larger operations:
Minimum capital: CHF 100,000 (50% must be paid in)
Board must include one Swiss resident
Can issue different share classes
Preferred for investment and growth
Incorporation with StableCorp
Our Swiss incorporation service handles:
**Structure Selection**: GmbH vs AG based on your needs
**Canton Selection**: Optimize for tax and operational requirements
**Documentation**: Notarized articles, founder documents
**Registration**: Commercial registry filing
**Banking**: Swiss and international banking relationships
**Compliance**: Ongoing regulatory support
Is Switzerland Right for You?
Consider Switzerland if:
Privacy and stability are paramount
Seeking European market access without EU membership
Operating in financial services, crypto, or high-value industries
Want access to sophisticated banking and legal infrastructure
Building a long-term, sustainable business
At StableCorp, we help founders evaluate Switzerland against other European options and structure optimal arrangements for their specific needs.