Swiss Bank Account Opening

 

Switzerland is renowned for its stable and reliable banking system, making it an ideal destination for both Swiss and foreign companies looking to open business bank accounts. Traditionally, Swiss banks primarily served companies based in Switzerland; however, they are now accommodating businesses from around the globe. Whether you plan to incorporate your business in Switzerland or are seeking a secure banking solution for your operations, understanding how to open a Swiss bank account is crucial.

EU Simplifies Tax Procedures: The New FASTER Directive


On December 10, 2024, the Council of the European Union approved the FASTER directive (Faster and Safer Tax Relief of Excess Withholding Taxes), which aims to reform the withholding tax refund system. This initiative's main goals are to enhance transparency, reduce administrative burdens, simplify tax regulations for investors, and combat tax abuse. These new rules will create a more favorable environment for cross-border investments while protecting national budgets across EU member states. Key Changes Introduced by the Directive are following:

Swiss Tax Trends 2025: Mission Possible

 

Digital Platform Taxation

Starting January 1, 2025, Switzerland is implementing a fundamental transformation in how digital platforms are taxed. Under the new regulations, digital platforms facilitating sales of goods will be considered the direct supplier for VAT purposes, creating a dual-transaction system where platforms act as intermediaries between sellers and buyers.

Share Capital in Switzerland

 

Setting up a company in Switzerland involves creating the company's share capital. In general terms, authorized capital can be defined as a sum of money that determines the company`s financial capabilities. Depending on the legal form of a company, the Swiss Code of Obligation establishes the following minimum size of the share capital:

 

AG / Corporation

Payroll Services in Switzerland: A Comprehensive Guide

 

In the complex landscape of Swiss business operations, managing payroll requires careful attention to detail and thorough understanding of local regulations. Whether you're a company expanding into Switzerland or an organization looking to optimize your existing payroll processes, here's what you need to know.
The Swiss payroll system is known for its emphasis on personal responsibility and relatively low burden of social contributions compared to other countries. It operates through a sophisticated structure that ensures both employee security and employer compliance.

Corporate Taxes in Switzerland


Switzerland's corporate tax system includes federal and cantonal taxes. The total corporate tax rate includes federal income tax, cantonal income tax, and capital taxes. 


Federal Taxation

Legal entities for tax purposes are divided into two categories: 


1. Corporations (including stock corporations, partnerships limited by shares, limited liability companies), cooperatives, and SICAFs. 
2. Associations, foundations, legal entities, and collective investment schemes with direct real estate ownership.

New Transfer Pricing Recommendations in Switzerland: What They Mean for Your Business

At the start of 2024, Swiss tax authorities introduced new transfer pricing guidelines to promote transparency and compliance. These recommendations were part of a "tax summary" released by the Swiss Tax Conference (STC) in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (SFTA). Discover why these changes matter and how your business can benefit from embracing them.

Points to Consider When Starting a Small Business In Switzerland

Starting a new business can be overwhelming. However, while meeting the legal requirements for company registration is essential, other aspects of setting up a business are equally important. These include selecting a suitable location, securing financial resources, and hiring employees, among other factors.

 

FINMA adopts new regulation implementing FinSA and FinIA

Recently The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA introduced a new regulation act under which is implementing the Financial Services Act FinSA and the Financial Institutions Act FinIA. Additionally, it is also issuing a new FINMA Financial Institutions Ordinance. They are supposed to enter into force on 1 January 2021.