Colombus Consulting has published a study on the strategies of banks and fintechs to conquer the professional market in Switzerland.
Despite a complex economic climate and a restrictive to neutral monetary policy in Switzerland, corporate financing remains robust. The debt of Swiss companies, impacted by the rise in interest rates, increased by more than 15%, mainly as a result of major acquisitions, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. This has led to a 30% increase in interest charges. However, we note that there are risks in this market, notably the increase in business failures, as in the 3rd quarter of 2024, which saw an increase of 24%* compared with the same quarter of the previous year. This situation reflects the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic and current economic challenges.
A market in the throes of change
Despite a complex economic environment marked by a tight monetary policy, the Swiss professional market remains robust. Swiss companies, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, have seen their indebtedness increase by more than 15%, leading to a significant rise in interest charges (+30%). However, this resilience masks an increase in business failures (+24% in the third quarter of 2024) as a result of the pandemic and economic challenges. This segment is attracting strong competition with the emergence of fintechs and online banks, as well as an increased need for personalised services such as international tax and sustainable investment.
Innovative and diversified offerings
Swiss banks are diversifying their services to meet the varied needs of professional customers – from craftsmen to the self-employed. They offer leasing, factoring and financial leasing solutions tailored to small businesses. In addition, modern and accessible banking services, such as those offered by UBS, N26 and Yapeal, are appealing to business start-ups and self-employed entrepreneurs thanks to their intuitive interfaces and competitive rates. The integration of specialist partners also strengthens these offerings, meeting expectations in terms of accounting, payment and sustainability.
The importance of advice and digitisation
Banking services are evolving towards more personalised advice and digital solutions. Tools such as UBS’s ESG analyses and Lombard Odier’s initiatives support professionals in managing their resources and sustainability strategies. At the same time, the adoption of APIs enables better integration with corporate tools, making it easier to manage payments and digital invoices. These innovations consolidate the attractiveness of banking players while strengthening customer loyalty.
Optimising relationship models
Given the diversity of customer profiles, banks are investing in hybrid branch formats and digital interactions. Mobile advisers, video calls and online chat provide an effective response to customers’ specific needs, whether local or digital. At the same time, strategic partnerships and digitalisation are at the heart of efforts to maintain a balance between costs and quality of service, offering an optimised customer experience.
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