Legal

Welcome to Zug: The Perfect Business Hub

Zug Canton, situated in central Switzerland, is more than just a picturesque location—it's a powerhouse for international business. Known for its low taxes, thriving economy, and strong infrastructure, Zug attracts entrepreneurs, multinational corporations, and tech startups alike. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your business, or seeking a tax-efficient headquarters, Zug offers a world-class business environment.

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:

Introduction

Crowdfunding has become a popular way to fund projects, support startups, and connect with investors worldwide. In 2022 alone, global crowdfunding platforms raised over $17 billion, demonstrating the growing importance of this financing method. Switzerland, known for its financial stability and innovation, is no exception to this trend. In this guide, we will explore what crowdfunding is, how it works in Switzerland, the different models available, and the legal framework governing this fast-growing sector. 

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.

Switzerland is known worldwide for its exceptional quality of life, breathtaking landscapes, and thriving economy. It’s no wonder that many individuals dream of making this country their permanent home. Obtaining permanent residence in Switzerland is a significant step toward enjoying this country's numerous benefits, from economic stability to cultural diversity.

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.

Recently, Switzerland adopted a new DLT Regulations which sets the country as a leader in FinTech, Blockchain,  DLT Technologies and other related programs. The new regulations will enter into force starting from this year.

From January 1, 2020. The Swiss Financial Institutions Act (FinIA) and the Swiss Financial Services Act (FinSA) entered into force, updating the regulatory regime for trustees working in Switzerland. This means that all independent portfolio managers (PMs) and trustees subject to supervision under FinIA will have to be supervised by a Supervised organisations (SO) authorised by FINMA and get licensed by FINMA before they can be able to carry out their activities as financial intermediaries in Switzerland.

The calculation of the tax rates in Switzerland is based on the net income of the taxpayer. Like in most other European countries, there are several tax deductions that can be made when a tax declaration is filed in Switzerland. These will reduce the taxable income and consequently the value of tax that needs to be paid diminishes significantly.