Vanguard Sees Fundamental Shift in Switzerland
The US-based asset manager is on a strong trajectory – including in Switzerland. For Vanguard, 2025 marks a special year in every respect.
For a long time, the 60/40 portfolio split – three-fifths equities, two-fifthts bonds – was considered ideal for investors. But the interest rate turnaround has changed the equation: 60/40 has become 40/60.
In times of upheaval, one thing remains crucial: discipline. «As an investor, it’s wise not to be guided by emotions,» says Jonathan Decurtins, Senior Sales Executive Switzerland and Liechtenstein at Vanguard. Sometimes, less truly is more.
Fixed Income is Becoming Increasingly Important
This principle has long guided Vanguard’s approach. Thats why the firm took two years before recently launching three new Exchange Traded Funds (ETF). «Market reactions have proven us right,» says Decurtins.
Overall, business is going well for Vanguard. Decurtins describes the first quarter as «very strong.» Demand is high. «Fixed income is becoming increasingly important,» he notes. Vanguard sees itself in a strong position as one of the largest active managers in the fixed income space.
A Big Anniversary
In Switzerland in particular, Decurtins has observed strong growth in ETF savings plans over the past year. «ETFs have now firmly established themselves in the Swiss market. Interest from retail banks is clearly rising,» he explains.
While ETFs have long been an important pillar of retirement savings in Germany, their adoption in Switzerland took more time. «Switzerland is, unlike Germany, a traditional banking market defined by high service quality. That – along with the third pillar of the pension system – slowed things down,» says Decurtins.
Vanguard is performing well. While that alone may not be reason to celebrate, this year is certainly a good one: Vanguard turns 50.
