Switzerland
Reports on Switzerland See all →
A Swiss answer to the Covid-19 crisis: Focus on liquidity
Switzerland devised an ingenious way to throw a lifeline to its enterprises during the pandemic-induced crisis. Its “liquidity facility” targets the core segment of the economy, relies on business owners’ sense of responsibility and does not burden the country’s public finances with intolerable debt.
Opinion: Defense is essential
Every state above a certain size needs armed forces to defend itself. Methods for their use vary, ranging from the Swiss model of territorial defense to the blue-water navies, foreign alliances and overseas bases deployed by superpowers. The one common element – essential to any sort of effective deterrence – ...
The Swiss franc 2.0
The Swiss economy is doing remarkably well. Though it is growing only slowly, its companies are competitive, unemployment is virtually absent, inflation is close to zero and public debt is under control. One would therefore expect the Swiss National Bank to abstain from taking an active role in monetary policy ...
Opinion: Automation, innovation and the arrogance of the elite
The idea of a guaranteed basic income has gained in popularity, with even Bill Gates proposing that such a measure could be funded through a tax on robots. These ideas are misguided: people will be able to adapt to change. And taxing innovation will only slow it down.
Europe’s future depends on investment in innovation
Europe has become very risk averse, focusing on protecting the privileges that have already been accumulated. Regulations meant to provide protection in case of failure sometimes go too far, limiting upside potential. This exchanges freedom for security, and blocks creativity and innovation. But only innovation can help Europe maintain its ...
