Switzerland’s 12-Step Plan to Solidify Its Position as a Blockchain Capital

Switzerland is aiming high with a newly launched 12-point manifesto, crafted by the Swiss Blockchain Federation in collaboration with the Crypto Valley Association and the Bitcoin Association Switzerland, to fortify its global standing as a premier blockchain hub. As stated in Disruption Banking, Bern was buzzing on May 6, 2025, with this bold declaration aiming to ensure Switzerland remains at the forefront of fintech and blockchain innovation.

A Vision for the Future: Innovation and Competitiveness

Switzerland has long been a beacon for blockchain enthusiasts, thanks to its forward-thinking regulatory environment and collaboration between the government and industry. However, the pressure is mounting from emerging hubs in Asia and the Middle East. The new program is Switzerland’s answer to this competition, offering a coordinated strategy to secure its future as a world leader in digital economy innovation.

The 12 Key Recommendations

The manifesto presents twelve actionable strategies, each targeting critical areas for development:

1. Fostering an Innovation-Friendly Environment: Encouraging regulatory bodies like FINMA to prioritize innovation and track progress methodically.
2. Ensuring Fair Regulation: Crafting technology-neutral and proportionate regulations for crypto service providers, maintaining a competitive edge.
3. Streamlining Regulatory Approvals: Introducing binding timelines for the completion of FINMA licensing procedures within six months.
4. Championing Digital Money: Embracing stablecoins and central bank digital currencies as the backbone of a thriving digital economy.
5. Enhancing Compliance Through Tech: Leveraging innovative technologies to increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of compliance operations.
6. Promoting Autonomy in Self-Regulation: Granting more freedom and flexibility to self-regulatory organizations.
7. Fostering Transparency in Oversight: Boosting transparency in supervisory practices to enhance trust and dialogue with industry stakeholders.
8. Reducing Investment Barriers: Identifying and dismantling obstacles to foreign investments to encourage more international participation.
9. Clarifying Ambiguous Rules: Simplifying regulatory standards through dialogue, delivering clarity to both authorities and industry insiders.
10. Evaluating International Standards: Reviewing international standards to ensure they align with and support Swiss national interests.
11. Encouraging Industry Leadership: The industry is encouraged to take initiative in developing standards and proactively tackling challenges.
12. Expanding Support for SMEs: Increasing governmental support and incentives for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises.

Embracing a Collaborative Future

The manifesto isn’t merely a call to action but an invitation to all relevant organizations to participate actively in this transformative journey. The Swiss Blockchain Federation and its partners are committed to regularly reviewing and adapting their goals to align with burgeoning technology trends and international standards, ensuring that Swiss leadership in the blockchain realm endures.

This groundbreaking 12-point strategy is a testament to Switzerland’s ambition to stay at the cutting edge of the blockchain sector and fortify its financial prowess for years to come. Join this mission to help secure a dynamic and prosperous digital future for Switzerland and beyond.