The Real Benefits of a Swiss Bank Account

Swiss banks are normal looking financial institutions where well trained polite employees aid you in your financial transactions, not the mysterious fortress like things described by Dan Brown. One very appealing aspect of Swiss bank accounts is the security of the financial institutions, the underlying economy and the competence of the institutions. Financial transactions in Switzerland are handled with the same attention to detail and exactness that goes into the crafting of a Swiss watch. Mistakes are rarely made.

Swiss financial institutions offer savings and checking accounts similar to those offered by banks in other countries, at comparable interest rates. Most Swiss banks charge minimal fees and do not issue penalties routinely. Most services are feeless, for example ATM use, automatic deposits and even disbursement. Currency is changed without fee to account holders and money accounts may be opened for any currency. This is an advantage to many international employees and retirees who are paid in currency other than the Swiss franc. By depositing their earnings in a, for example Euro account, they can wait for a favourable exchange rate to convert to the currency of the county and maximize the worth of the money.

Swiss bank accounts offer direct deposit services for funds paid into an account and direct payments from an account, both by bank transfer. This eliminates check writing and is a fast and secure way to pay bills. Most banks will make routine monthly payments such as a mortgage or rent efficiently without charge. All Swiss banks offer extensive, secure online services. Customers may monitor their accounts online and make bank transfer, pay bills and perform other transactions over the Internet. There is not additional fee, however, there is a fee for postage if the customer elects to receive a monthly statement by mail.

Bank accounts in Switzerland come with the universal promotional offerings designed to lure new customers. Some offer an increased interest rate for a promotional period on new accounts. Other banks offer free concert tickets as an inducement. One well known Swiss bank issues an ATM card that allows the holder free entrance into all participating museums within Switzerland.

Probably the most appealing feature of a Swiss bank account is that it is anonymous. This is a strongly held tradition in Swiss banking that dates back to the Middle Ages. The anonymity of a Swiss bank account is sacrosanct and no information is released regarding an account or investor in response to any government inquiry.

by Sally.Anderson 19 years ago