Switzerland is one of the most stable economies in the world making it one of the most popular countries for offshore banking. Their stable political status has helped their economy. They have remained neutral even in through two World wars. This has resulted in them being able to develop their banking systems. 5.6 % of their working population is in the banking industry.

Switzerland is one of the pioneer countries to introduce offshore banking to the world. It is the most famous country offering offshore banking. Whenever we think of offshore banking or foreign bank accounts, we immediately connect or think of Switzerland.

The confidentiality of Swiss banks has been established from the middle ages. They are popularly known for their stability and strict faithfulness to client privacy and protection of assets and information. All Swiss banks are regulated by the Federal Banking System, (FBS). Due to strict government regulation, in 2002 there were less than one third of the total offshore bank accounts in Swiss Banks. However, in the year 2003, over one third of offshore bank accounts all over the world were said to be in Swiss banks.

The Bank of International Settlements is headquartered in Basil. Statistics, as on May 2006, declare that the huge number of foreign banks operating out of Switzerland hold about 870 billion Swiss francs. The Federal Banking Commission is an autonomous agency, created to oversee most of the operations of the Swiss banks. And these activities include issues relating to investment funds and security markets.

A few tips while planning to invest in offshore banks:

1. Always check the services provided by the bank carefully before hand. Be sure to pick the one that suits your requirement the most and which provides swift and efficient global transfers in minimum time.

- They should be offering the maximum tax advantages and pay attention to your confidentiality. Your privacy is very important and you can usually get an anonymous investment account to handle all your financial transactions.

- The political situation should be stable in the country and they should be friendly to foreign investments and accounts.

- Their banking institutions and economy should be stable. This is an important part of your financial security.

You should always know the various schemes provided by the offshore banks so that you can take advantage of the one which suits you the most. For example, there are offshore trusts and companies along with offshore banks which you can invest in. Thanks to technology you have the option of searching for all the information of your ideal offshore bank and trust over the internet.

It is best advised to verify the bank and country in which you want to invest in. You should always research on the laws, rules and regulations of the country’s government before investing in it. By knowing all the details of the investments and trusts you will benefit by getting the best deal.