Swissquote Bank Research Team
Swissquote Bank Ltd
There are reasons for optimism and for pessimism. On the plus side, GDP grew 3.2% in Q2, well above its recent average. But growth seems to be slowing, and the risks of a trade war are weighing on exports. According to Swiss National Bank President Thomas Jordan, a trade war would have a strong impact on the Swiss economy, while the risk of monetary policy mistakes would rise. SNB returns have whipsawed: Q3 saw a loss on foreign currency investments of CHF 12.94 billion, down from a record profit of CHF 33.7 billion in Q3 2017.
Switzerland’s economic outlook remains driven by the development in trade and the mounting debt pile of the SNB, estimated at CHF 700 billion. Switzerland’s safe haven status might prove to be a burden in the coming quarters. For now, inflation continues to advance slightly in October (CPI +1.10% annually and +0.20% monthly). Since the beginning of the 2018, the CHF appreciated by 2.92% and 2.47% against USD and EUR respectively, putting pressure on exporting industry margins and thus putting manufacturing activities downward.
After reaching a 15-month low in the beginning of September of 1.12, the EUR/CHF is bouncing back, approaching the 1.1430 range short-term.
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This report has been prepared by Swissquote Bank Ltd and is solely been published for informational purposes and is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any currency or any other financial instrument. Views expressed in this report may be subject to change without prior notice and may differ or be contrary to opinions expressed by Swissquote Bank Ltd personnel at any given time. Swissquote Bank Ltd is under no obligation to update or keep current the information herein, the report should not be regarded by recipients as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgment.
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