Warum ist die Schweiz so reich? | Von Einkommen, Vermögen und der blauen Banane | Doku | SRF Dok

Switzerland boasts some of the highest salaries globally, with a monthly gross income of approximately 6,655 Euros, significantly higher than Austria (3,724 Euros) and Germany (3,535 Euros). Furthermore, it holds the title of the wealthiest country globally based on average net assets per adult, with a median wealth of 227,891 Euros per capita in 2019, far surpassing Germany (35,313 Euros) and Austria (94,070 Euros).

A key factor in Switzerland's wealth is its long-standing position within the 'Blue Banana', a European urban belt stretching from Northern Italy to England. This region has been the backbone of the European economy for a millennium, fostering inventions, high population density, and dynamic economic processes. Switzerland's integral location within this zone has facilitated the exchange of ideas, technology adoption, and specialization, leading to strong regional industries like pharmaceuticals in Basel and finance in Zurich.

The Swiss banking secrecy attracted vast amounts of undeclared European and international wealth for decades. This stance positioned Switzerland as a unique and professional financial center, offering independence and neutrality. However, international pressure, particularly from the US and European countries, led to the dismantling of banking secrecy by 2009 for non-Swiss citizens. While some predict a decline in Swiss wealth, others argue that the end of secrecy allows other industries to flourish, demonstrating that the financial sector's importance, though still significant, has not led to impoverishment.

Switzerland's early history contributed to its wealth through mercenary services, which provided significant income and fostered commercial links abroad. Its advantageous geographical position with major rivers (Rhône and Rhine) and Alpine passes strategically channeled trade between Northern Italy and Northern Europe. This natural advantage, coupled with investments in infrastructure like tunnels and railways, further boosted trade and spurred the growth of the Swiss credit and banking sector.

The manufacturing sector, particularly mechanical engineering and pharmaceuticals, is a major contributor to Switzerland's GDP. These industries trace their origins back to the textile industry, which was an early driver of the Swiss economy. Proto-industrialization, characterized by home-based work, and subsequent factory industrialization, led to the development of machinery manufacturing and later, through the chemical processes for dyeing textiles, the pharmaceutical industry.

Immigration, especially from Protestant refugees like the Huguenots in the 16th and 17th centuries, significantly boosted Swiss industry. These skilled artisans and merchants brought new technologies and market connections, particularly in clockmaking and textiles. However, the Swiss economic success also involved exploitation. Early industrialization maintained low wages through child and women labor, and external labor was readily used and then expelled during economic downturns, highlighting a darker side of its economic history.

Switzerland also benefited from controversial practices, including connections to the transatlantic slave trade and acting as a 'free rider' on the imperialistic actions of other great powers. While Switzerland is wealthy, its wealth distribution is highly unequal, with a Gini index of 77.9 (similar to Germany's), indicating significant disparities. Despite high prices, Swiss citizens on average can afford 11% more than their German counterparts and have higher purchasing power after adjusting for living costs.

Low corporate tax rates, particularly in cantons like Zug, attract large companies and contribute to Switzerland's wealth. The country is also the world's leading hub for raw material trading, handling a quarter of all global commodities. These trading firms, often benefiting from Switzerland's neutrality, act as intermediaries, primarily channeling capital through the country without the goods physically entering it.

Switzerland's neutrality, particularly during the World Wars, protected its infrastructure and allowed its industries to rebound quickly post-war, supplying much-needed goods to war-torn Europe. While its neutrality was initially imposed, Switzerland effectively branded it as its own. During WWII, Switzerland's role in handling Nazi gold, including looted and concentration camp gold, was a controversial aspect, allowing Germany to acquire raw materials and potentially avoiding invasion, though this does not fully explain its non-invasion.

Switzerland's unique direct democracy and consensus-driven federal government contribute to political stability, which is highly beneficial for economic growth. The country's strong emphasis on education, with early compulsory and free schooling for both genders, has been a cornerstone of its success. This ensures a highly skilled population capable of navigating complex issues and driving innovation, maintaining Switzerland's competitive edge.

Despite its successes, Switzerland faces challenges, including the increasing influence of global players in finance and the competitive landscape for innovation in areas like artificial intelligence, where Europe, including Switzerland, lags behind the US and Asia. However, Switzerland's high immigration rates across all skill levels suggest continued attractiveness and an influx of talent. The country's successful past, strategic location, clever political decisions, and adaptable approach ensure its ongoing prosperity.