The financial markets are among the most heavily regulated sectors of the economy. The most important goals of financial market regulation are protection of the individual (protection of creditors, investors and insured persons), system stability and properly functioning financial markets.
Through the increasing cross-border integration of financial markets, international standards have a substantial impact on financial market regulation. Switzerland is actively involved in the corresponding international bodies that draw up these standards. If the same cross-border rules apply to everyone, this ultimately strengthens the competitiveness of the domestic financial centre.
When formulating or revising financial market regulations, SIF pays particular attention to the following points:
- Involvement of stakeholders. Broad-based exchanges with the industry take place during regular meetings on general topics and specific projects. Where appropriate, customers (e.g. insured persons) are included in these exchanges.
- Cost/benefit analyses. In the case of new regulatory projects, cost/benefit analyses are carried out and the probable economic impact is evaluated right from the outset (quick check and regulatory impact assessment).
- Ex post evaluations. Together with the administration, independent experts examine whether existing regulations are effective, and whether there is a need for deregulation or greater regulation.