The Swiss franc is traditionally seen as a safe haven for investors in
times of geopolitical and/or market uncertainty.
The country’s steady economy and relatively low levels of national debt
have helped the Swiss franc hold up time and again during times of crisis.
Proud of the currency’s role in their nation’s fortunes, it’s a fair bet
that the financially literate citizens of Switzerland know how to protect
their wealth as well as anyone.
So it’s interesting to note the results of a nationwide study released
this month showing they are big fans of gold, ranking the yellow metal second
on a list of preferred forms of investment.
According to the University of St Gallen-led research, 53% of participants
favoured real estate, but gold was a close second with 48% recognising its
vital role in a portfolio.
Shares, funds and cash attracted votes from 30%, 25% and 24% respectively.
Silver took 13th place on the list and platinum finished in 19th
spot.
According to the report’s authors: “Low interest rates, the fading
attraction of classic forms of saving such as the savings account, as well as
economic and political uncertainties are the hallmarks of today’s financial market.
Against this background, investors increasingly rely on physical precious
metals since this form of investment is regarded as inflation-proof and as an
iron ration in times of crisis.”
Underlining the country’s faith in the ongoing relevance of gold, almost
one in five Swiss nationals said they were planning to invest in precious
metals in the coming twelve months.
