On 26 February 2025, the Swiss Financial Innovation Desk (FIND) hosted a workshop in Bern titled Pathway for Financial Services Integration. The event brought together representatives from public authorities and key industry associations to explore opportunities and challenges related to financial services integration in Switzerland.
Among the participants were Andrea Weber and Nicolas Brügger (both State Secretariat for International Finance), Andreas Kläusli (Head of Data Management & Strategic Analysis, MROS - FEDPOL), Silvan Meier (Head of Financial Services, Competition Commission), Willi Brammertz (Managing Director, Ariadne Business Analytics) as well as representatives from industry associations such as Thomas Zerndt (OpenBankingProject.ch), Pascal Schöni (Swiss Fintech Association), Guido Saurer (economiesuisse), Sandra Kurmann (Swiss Insurance Association), Richard Hess (Swiss Banking Association), Markus Dinkelmann (Asset Management Association Switzerland), and Severin Pflüger (Verband Elektronischer Zahlungsverkehr).
The workshop was moderated by Head of FIND, Eva Selamlar, and opened with two thought-provoking keynotes. Marie Walker, Open Futurist at Raidiam, shared UK and international best practices in financial data sharing, highlighting how open standards can foster innovation and trust. Marco Peyer, Co-Founder of Risktec, focused on national resilience, showing how digital integration and strong public-private partnerships can enhance Switzerland’s ability to navigate future disruptions. Elio Guarino and Vénusia Bertin from the FIND team earned a big applause for having diligently prepared everything necessary for a successful and smooth exchange.
The aim of the workshop which was conducted under the Chatam House Rules was to gather insights into best practices for financial services integration, highlight key market-driven initiatives in Switzerland and identify existing gaps. Discussions also focused on defining a potential roadmap to enhance financial services integration for Swiss consumers and businesses.
The lively exchanges helped finalize our latest publication, Building Blocks for Smart Finance in Switzerland, now available in our library.
In this publication, we explore the question: How can Switzerland develop a future-proof financial infrastructure while staying true to its principles of market orientation and innovation?
Our approach offers a comprehensive framework built on six strategic pillars – from targeted regulation to public awareness and stakeholder engagement. We also outline concrete actions to be taken across sectors to support this transition.
Discover the full analysis here and join the conversation on how to shape Switzerland’s smart finance future.
Picture: Senior representatives from public and private sector gather at Bernerhof at the Workshop Pathway for Financial Services Integration.