Good morning, and welcome to your Swiss Business Brief for Thursday, April 24th, 2025. Global markets remain cautious amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding US trade policies and potential tariffs, influencing currency movements and investor sentiment. Here in Switzerland, the focus is on the Swiss National Bank's latest results, the
As Easter weekend approaches in 2025, many people in Switzerland are preparing for a long weekend getaway. If you are planning to travel within the country or visit Switzerland during this time, there are several things you should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Easter weekend, which takes
Switzerland, the home of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), is at risk of being excluded from the organization's cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) projects. This is due to the country's non-membership in the European Union (EU) and the associated agreements with the European Atomic Energy
The Tesla Files Controversy: Unrest Within the Company Elon Musk's Tesla is facing internal turbulence following revelations from a major international investigation known as the "Tesla Files." These documents expose significant quality concerns and safety issues at the electric car manufacturer, causing unease among employees and
Switzerland and the EU are navigating a complex relationship through bilateral treaties - agreements that have provided Switzerland access to the European single market while preserving its political independence. However, these treaties, some dating back to the 1990s, have been showing signs of strain as the EU pushes for updates
In a significant shift for Switzerland's financial culture, cash has been dethroned as the most popular payment method, according to a recent survey by the Swiss National Bank (SNB). For the first time, debit cards have surpassed cash as the preferred payment option among Swiss residents. The triennial
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Key Points * The sentiment on S&P 500 futures today seems likely to be bearish, driven by recent tariff announcements and economic uncertainty. * Research suggests market volatility has increased, with significant declines linked to trade policy changes. * It appears consumer confidence is low, potentially worsening market sentiment, based on
Politics and International Relations: * US Tariffs: Discussions are ongoing regarding potential US tariffs on Swiss goods. The Swiss President has spoken with the US President, and a special envoy has been appointed to the US, though formal negotiations haven't started. This situation could impact the Swiss economy. * EU
Swiss pharma group Novartis has announced a significant investment of $23bn in the US over the next five years, aiming to expand its manufacturing and research and development capabilities. This move is part of the company's strategy to reconfigure its supply chains in preparation for potential US tariffs.
As human activity in outer space intensifies, so does the potential for friction and conflict. Satellites underpin critical infrastructure globally, supporting everything from communication and navigation to financial transactions and weather forecasting. This increasing reliance, coupled with growing military applications and capabilities demonstrated by various nations, raises serious concerns about
Recent international trade disputes, particularly stemming from tariffs imposed by the United States administration, have introduced significant volatility into the global economy. In such times of uncertainty, investors often seek refuge in historically stable assets, commonly known as safe havens. The Swiss Franc (CHF) stands out as a prime example
Fears are growing within Swiss industries regarding the potential economic fallout should the United States implement sweeping import tariffs, particularly if Donald Trump returns to the presidency. A proposed universal tariff of 10% on all goods entering the US, and potentially higher rates for specific countries like China, could significantly
Despite facing significant economic pressure from newly imposed US tariffs under the Trump administration, the Swiss government has officially decided against implementing retaliatory measures. Officials in Bern confirmed this position, emphasizing a strategy focused on dialogue and international legal frameworks rather than direct trade confrontation. The decision comes even as
Switzerland Reports First Case of New Mpox Variant Swiss health authorities have confirmed the country’s first case of the newly emerging mpox variant, known as clade Ib. The patient, who had recently traveled to an African nation where the variant is circulating, was diagnosed in Geneva. According to the
Chinese automotive giant BYD has officially launched its operations in Switzerland, marking another significant step in its European expansion strategy. The company announced its entry into the Swiss market on April 5, with plans to initially offer five models to Swiss consumers. The launch event held in Zürich featured BYD’
Switzerland's culinary identity is a rich tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences – Mediterranean, Atlantic, and continental – shaped by varied landscapes like the Alps and lakes. The encyclopaedia "Switzerland's Culinary Heritage" meticulously documents this diversity, cataloging 453 distinct products based on specific criteria: each must
* US Tariffs on Swiss Imports: The imposition of 31% US tariffs on Swiss goods has caused significant concern across Switzerland. The Swiss government is currently analyzing the situation and its potential impacts, particularly on the vital pharmaceutical sector, but has decided against immediate retaliatory measures. President Karin Keller-Sutter has advised
The concept of national defense is evolving beyond traditional military and cyber security measures. A new front has opened – the cognitive sphere – where the weapon is information, and the target is public opinion and societal resilience. Disinformation, the deliberate spread of false or misleading information, is increasingly recognized as a
