Legal basis for banks

Banking Act

The Banking Act governs banks, private bankers and savings banks. It deals with operating licences and specifies rules for business conduct.

Banking Ordinance

The Banking Ordinance applies to banks, private bankers and savings banks; it details the provisions of the Banking Act.

FINMA Foreign Banks Ordinance

The FINMA Foreign Banks Ordinance applies to foreign banks seeking to set up a branch in Switzerland.

Capital Adequacy Ordinance

To protect creditors and the stability of the financial system, banks and securities dealers are required to keep sufficient capital available for the business they conduct and the risks they incur and to limit their risks appropriately. This ordinance applies to banks and securities dealers.