The Swiss Franc, created in 1798 by Swiss cantons, was made the official monetary unit of Switzerland and Lichtenstein in 1859 after the issue of money was restricted to the federal government. Considered as one of the world’s strongest currencies, the Swiss Franc is popular for its low volatility and its low correlation with returns on foreign assets. Historically considered a ‘safe-haven currency’, the Swiss Franc has almost zero inflation. As the sixth most traded currency in the market, the Swiss banknotes have all four national languages printed on them including: German, French, Romansh, and Italian.
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Swiss Franc Facts
Swiss franc futures allow traders to assess value against the U.S. dollar, as well as the opportunity to address risk from currency fluctuations in other foreign trade markets.
Currency rates are determined by a one base currency quoted in relation to a different currency. Major currencies that are traded are floating. Central bank monetary policies can affect the value of currency. The Swiss National Bank regulates monetary policy for its currency. For instance, low interest rates dictated as policy can be bearish for currency value because new money is being pumped into the market. This is unappealing to foreign investors because returns yield those low interest rates. In contrast, high interest rates set as policy are bullish and appealing to foreign investors because of high interest yields from the returns. Currency values can be also be affected by the nation’s current account balance. An excess or influx in the balance is considered to be bullish, while a deficit or drainage is considered to be bearish. Economic stability and investment in the country also help strengthen currency values because international investors are likely to buy into that country’s favorable markets.
Source: Barchart
Last updated September 2015.