Archive
August 2026
New General and Sports Medicine Center in Fribourg
On September 1, Clinique Générale Sainte-Anne in Fribourg opens a general and sports medicine center. Three FMH specialists will treat patients regardless of insurance status.
MEM SMEs: Economy Improves, Skilled Labor Shortage Remains
The Swissmechanic business climate index rises to around minus 20 points. However, two-thirds of companies still view their situation as unfavorable. The skilled labor shortage remains the biggest challenge.
Raiffeisen Schweiz Cuts Up to 180 Jobs
Raiffeisen Schweiz aims to save around CHF 60 million by 2027. Up to 180 jobs will be eliminated, with more than half through natural attrition. Despite this, net profit rose significantly in the first half of 2026.
Blood Moon over Switzerland: Partial Lunar Eclipse on August 28
A partial lunar eclipse will occur in Switzerland on August 28, 2026. From 4:34 AM, Earth's shadow will cover up to 94 percent of the full moon. Observation tips and background information.
Switzerland's GDP: Data Situation Unclear After FSO Publication
The latest GDP data from the Federal Statistical Office is not yet available. A chart page from August 25, 2026, references the period 1996 to 2025. Specific figures are missing.
Psychotherapy: Commission Requires Psychiatric Diagnosis
The National Council's Health Committee wants to reimburse psychological psychotherapy only after a psychiatric diagnosis. Psychotherapists are protesting strongly, with over 2,000 having signed a petition.
Neutrality Initiative: What a 'Yes' Would Mean
On September 27, 2026, Switzerland votes on the Neutrality Initiative. The Federal Council and Parliament recommend a 'No'. An overview of the arguments.
Historical Monetary Controversies Shape Digital Tokens
A new SNB Working Paper indicates: Digital money forms are not new categories, but continue old monetary theoretical controversies. This analysis provides a classification.
Ojemda: New Drug Approved for Pediatric Brain Tumors
Swissmedic has approved Ojemda (Tovorafenib) for children with low-grade glioma. The authorization is temporary. The medication is administered once per week.
SEM Plans Legislative Package Against Criminal Asylum Seekers
State Secretary Vincenzo Mascioli announces a security package to address criminal asylum seekers. The SEM also aims to reduce obviously unfounded asylum applications through preliminary procedures.
Population Growth Slightly Slowed in 2025
The Federal Statistical Office has released definitive figures on Switzerland's population development for 2025. The data indicates that growth has slightly slowed. Specific details are not yet available.
Special Program Boosts Energy Efficiency in Non-Profit Housing
Between 2021 and 2025, the federal government supported non-profit housing developers with 119 million Swiss francs. Renovations of 2,413 apartments generated investments of 533 million Swiss francs.
Offline Card Payments: Industry Solution Boosts Supply Security
Switzerland broadly implements offline card payments for the first time. This industry solution ensures essential goods remain purchasable even with interrupted data connections. It enhances supply security for critical items.
Edelweiss Opens New Competence Center at Zurich Airport
Edelweiss expands its presence at Zurich Airport with a new hub. This competence centre integrates operations, training, and a brand experience area, addressing market competition.
Shein: Valuation Drops Before IPO
Shein plans an IPO in Hong Kong, but the fashion retailer's valuation has significantly dropped. This raises questions about remaining risks for investors.
Aarberg Hospital Discontinues Surgery: Focus on Orthopedics
The Insel Gruppe discontinues inpatient surgery at Aarberg Hospital. The facility will now focus on orthopedics, geriatric medicine, and internal medicine.
Terravis Expands Digital Debt Enforcement for Offices
The Terravis platform now offers services for debt enforcement and bankruptcy offices. Digitalization aims to accelerate and unify legal procedures, promising faster processing and reduced paperwork across cantons.
Trump Buys SpaceX Shares, Raising Ethics Questions
President Donald Trump bought shares in SpaceX in June, according to a financial disclosure. The move raises questions about conflicts of interest and his ties to Elon Musk.
First Positrons Generated for Future Circular Collider
Cern successfully generated positrons for the Future Circular Collider. This marks a significant step towards the LHC's successor. What implications does this hold for particle physics research?
FC Thun: Championship Squad Crumbles
FC Thun must cope with numerous departures after winning the championship. The new season will show whether the restructuring succeeds and competitiveness is maintained.
Rain Not Enough: Federal Government Calls for More Water Saving
Recent rainfall has not alleviated the drought. The Federal Government urges cantons and the public to conserve water.
Dental Radiology: Suspected Fraud in Western Switzerland
A dentist in Western Switzerland allegedly billed for radiological services without obtaining the required approvals. The public prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into the suspected billing fraud.
Trump Threatens Canada With 50 Percent Car Tariffs
The USA threatens Canada with significant car tariffs in a customs dispute. This could also affect Swiss exporters. An overview of the situation.
Compassana and Well Merge: A Platform for Patient Data
Compassana and Well are merging. The two health platforms aim to create a common solution for patient data. What does this mean for insured individuals, hospitals, and data security?