Reduction in minimum interest rate: important step in strengthening the “2nd pillar”

The Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) welcomes the decision of the Swiss government to lower the minimum interest rate for occupational pension schemes (BVG) to 2.25%, effective 1 January 2004. This is a step in the right direction for reinforcing the “2nd pillar”.

Zurich, 10th September 2003 – The SIA nevertheless regards a minimum interest rate of 2% as a more accurate reflection of the economic situation. The state of the financial markets is such that considerable volatility may be anticipated.

The minimum interest rate must remain flexible in response to market conditions. At the same time, it must be transparent: this means that participants must be able to calculate and understand it readily. This makes an economically viable, reliable investment model necessary. Unfortunately, no such model currently exists. The development of such a tool must begin immediately so that it will be ready for use in defining the minimum interest rate the next time it is changed.