Switzerland, often regarded as a bastion of economic stability in Europe, appears to be in a better position than its eurozone neighbors when it comes to private lending rates. However, a number of factors suggest that private lending rates could yet rise. slightly increase in the coming months. This article therefore focuses on a key element of this dynamic: the evolution of interest rates for private loans in Switzerland by the end of the year.
3 signals to watch out for when it comes to private loan rates!
1. A strong job market provides additional security for private loans
The Swiss job market is in excellent health! In fact, we enjoy one of the world's lowest unemployment rates on record. This helps to boost consumer confidence and support domestic demand, which in turn boosts economic growth. The positive signal from the labor market means that lending institutions in Switzerland are confident. In theory, therefore, they should maintain private lending conditions similar to those of recent years. And so.., future private credit applicants were not expected to see their borrowing capacity decline in the coming months.
2. Inflation under control in Switzerland, but still impacting private lending rates
Inflation, often a key indicator of economic health, is much better controlled in Switzerland than in Europe. With inflation forecast at 2.4% in 2023, compared with 5.5% in the eurozone, Switzerland enjoys a more stable environment. This is mainly due to the strength of the Swiss franc.
However, the inflation target is set at less than 2% by BNS. This means that one or two future rate hikes cannot be ruled out between now and the end of 2023. This would have a direct impact on private lending rates. For further information, please consult the article " Effective increase in maximum interest rate for private loans ". In this context, we therefore believe that the maximum rate on consumer credit could well reach 12% by the end of 2023.
3. Switzerland maintains BIP growth
It's important to note that, while the eurozone experienced two consecutive quarters of GDP contraction, Switzerland maintained positive, albeit modest, growth. The outlook for 2023 also shows Swiss GDP growth forecast to be slightly higher than that of the eurozone. This situation is generating positive signals for the consumption of goods and services. Against this backdrop, we could also imagine that lending institutions in Switzerland are expected to maintain the same level of funding for private loans as in previous years. For future borrowers, this means that sums of money will be the same as in previous years!
What these three signals tell us about the future of the Swiss private-loan market
Switzerland's economic environment is currently marked by three key indicators: a solid labor market, more controlled inflation and positive GDP growth. These factors are boosting the confidence of lending institutions in Switzerland. As a result, terms and conditions of private loans should remain similar to those of previous years.
However, even if Switzerland's inflation rate is better controlled than that of its European neighbor, the fact that the SNB suggests that increases in the key interest rate are expected by the end of 2023. This could lead to an increase in the maximum rate for consumer credit in Switzerland.
Despite this potentially restrictive factor, the steady growth of Swiss GDP suggests that the volume of private loans will be similar to previous years. Future borrowers can therefore remain relatively confident about their borrowing capacity and the terms of future loans.
How can you save on your consumer credit in Switzerland?
With interest rates on private loans set to rise in Switzerland, consumers are looking for ways to save money on their loans. private loans. Here are some solutions that can help reduce costs :
Compare private credit offers:
The first step to saving money on a private loan is to compare the different offers available on the market. Online platforms such as comparateur-credit.ch give you an overview of the best current offers based on your profile.
Negotiating with lenders :
Never underestimate the power of negotiation! If you have a good track record and a solid credit historyuse it as leverage to obtain more advantageous loan conditions. Lica has a perfect command of this process, and handles all dealings with the various service providers on the Swiss market.
Use a specialized private credit broker :
A professional can help you find the best strategy for your loan. Lica's services go beyond the simple offer comparison. Our team of advisors can guide you towards customized solutions for optimize your loan.
Pay off your consumer credit faster:
If your financial situation allows, consider increasing your monthly repayments. By repaying your loan faster, reduce the total amount of interest paid.
Consolidate your private loans with the repurchase solution:
If you have several outstanding loans, consider consolidating them or taking out a new loan. buying back your private loans. This will enable you to benefit from a single interest rate that is often more advantageous. simplified management of your financing.
Pay attention to additional costs:
In addition to the interest rate, some loans include additional charges (administration fees, borrower's insurance, etc.). Read the terms and conditions conditions and find out about these additional costs. Lica services can help you identify and avoid these hidden costs.
Our conclusion on private loan rates
The economic environment in Switzerland presents a mixed picture that will inevitably influence the private lending sector. Indeed, the robust job market and continuing GDP growth signal a degree of stability and confidence. However, inflation slightly above the SNB's target suggests that interest rate rises are expected over the next 12 months.
However, despite this outlook, solutions do exist for maximizing savings on private loans. With this in mind, the Lica platform is emerging as an essential ally for consumers. By enabling efficient comparison market offeringsLica gives borrowers the tools they need to make informed choices. With the support of dedicated advisors, Lica goes beyond simply putting people in touch with each other, offering tailor-made solutions for every borrower profile.