In the most practical terms, investing in Switzerland can mean simply owning a holiday home, starting a business or buying stocks. Here's what you should know.
While countries like the United States, Britain and Spain have seen crashes in house prices in past years, the Swiss market has experienced above average growth.
The Lex Koller legislation limits how foreigners can buy property in Switzerland and owning property does not give a person the right to a Swiss residence permit. Permits and authorisation for buying property are handled at the cantonal level.
Financing is typically available, usually between 60-80%. Interest rates are often low at 4% or below and have even strayed into negative territory recently. Expect to pay closing costs and various taxes and fees for completing the transaction and getting the property registered with authorities.