Based on the German-language article “Berne Agreement oder BFSA – Praktischer Ratgeber für Schweizer Finanzinstitute” by Raphael Züger and Dr Ariel Sergio Davidoff
The Berne Financial Services Agreement (BFSA), which entered into force on 1 January 2026, marks an important step in financial cooperation between Switzerland and the United Kingdom. For the first time, both countries formally recognise the equivalence of their financial market regulation and supervision, creating a framework that facilitates cross-border financial services.
For Swiss banks, securities firms and asset managers, the agreement opens new opportunities to serve professional and qualified clients in the UK directly from Switzerland. By reducing regulatory barriers while maintaining strong standards for market integrity and client protection, the BFSA strengthens the international competitiveness of the Swiss financial centre.
As highlighted by Raphael Züger and Dr Ariel Sergio Davidoff of Davidoff Law, the agreement represents a practical pathway for Swiss financial institutions seeking structured access to the UK market. At the same time, careful preparation and regulatory compliance remain essential when using the new framework.
The full article is available in German. You can read or download the original publication here:
Berne Agreement oder BFSA – Praktischer Ratgeber für Schweizer Finanzinstitute (German PDF)
