Swiss Franc Could Remain in Demand as Safe Haven  The Wall Street Journal

Swiss companies want to reclaim US tariffs  SWI swissinfo.ch

Airlines suspended operations at some major airports and expect to restart some flights on Monday and more on Tuesday.

Basel's 'Schnitzelbänggler' satirists are focusing on the performance crisis of Swiss dignitaries, including Federal Councillor Jans, with criticism and occasional surprising praise.

Swiss TV host Reto Hanselmann has publicly shared his experience with andropause, highlighting that hormonal changes and declining testosterone levels can affect men, leading to a loss of joy.

Swiss companies want to reclaim US tariffs  SWI swissinfo.ch

The traditional Swiss carnival event 'Morgestraich' was held in the evening in Canada, adapting its usual morning timing.

The Swiss government announced it is continuing discussions with the United States to transform a preliminary agreement from late 2025 into a legally binding trade deal, aiming to reduce business uncertainty.

Deutsche Bahn has significantly improved its punctuality thanks to Swiss assistance, with measures including a new connection to Switzerland from Singen starting December 2025. These efforts by DB and SBB are reportedly effective and will be extended.

Swiss companies are reportedly looking to reclaim tariffs paid to the United States.

The Basel Carnival has officially begun with its traditional 'Morgestraich' procession, marking the start of the annual festivities in Switzerland.

Swiss researchers have found that large dogs at rest emit as much CO2 as an adult human and introduce various gases, particles, and microbes into home environments.

The Basel Carnival has officially begun with its traditional 'Morgestraich' procession, marking the start of the annual festivities.

Iran: new talks with US ‘probably on Thursday in Geneva’  SWI swissinfo.ch

Swiss Re Corporate Solutions has announced its intention to purchase QBE's credit and surety unit, expanding its portfolio in this specialized insurance sector.

The Basel Carnival, Switzerland's largest carnival, has officially begun with its traditional 'Morgestraich' procession, marking the start of three days of festivities.

Switzerland is two weeks away from a vote on the SRG (Swiss Broadcasting Corporation) initiative, which has sparked debate among young politicians.

Swiss curling couple Paetz and Michel have achieved success at the Olympic Games, winning medals in their respective events.

Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister acknowledges issues within the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS) and emphasizes the need for greater transparency and open handling of mistakes.

Many Swiss bakers are struggling against cheap bread and a shortage of skilled workers, but the Bachmann brothers are successfully expanding their business, prompting questions about their recipe for success.

The Swiss town of Birsfelden has fined thousands of drivers to reduce rat runs, a model the Zurich Greens want to adopt, though the Federal Council has raised legal concerns about its validity.

A new analysis reveals significant differences in the cost of living across Swiss municipalities, based on rents, taxes, and health insurance premiums.

A 26-year-old woman from Plav, Montenegro, was arrested on suspicion of stealing 70,000 euros, 1,100 dollars, and 300 Swiss francs from a 70-year-old man, reportedly using some of the money to buy a car for her boyfriend.

US tax yo-yo blurs situation for Swiss companies  SWI swissinfo.ch

Peter Stämpfli, a pioneering figure in Swiss pop art, has passed away.

Swiss couple Paetz and Michel have won medals in curling at the Games.

Swiss International Air Lines, part of the Lufthansa Group, is exploring ultra-low-cost fares, which could lead to the removal of currently included amenities like hand luggage and water in its 'Economy Light' tariff.

The Swiss government intends to continue negotiations for a new trade agreement with the United States, even after the US Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs. A Seco official stated that Switzerland must 'come to terms with the tariffs'.

Members of the Dutch BBB political party have expressed significant concern and opposition to a proposed leadership change in an open letter.

A new investment product focusing on 'physical AI' – including drones, robots, and self-driving cars – has been launched on the Swiss stock exchange, prompting investors to consider its potential.

A 26-year-old woman in Plav, Montenegro, has been arrested for allegedly stealing over 70,000 euros, 1,100 dollars, and 300 Swiss francs from a 70-year-old man's house. She reportedly used the stolen money to buy a vehicle for her partner and luxury clothes for herself, with police recovering more than half of the stolen funds and the vehicle.

Plans for a new cable car and a luxury resort are causing division within Switzerland's Val Müstair, impacting the future of winter tourism in the region.

The Swiss Federal Council is reviewing proposals for enhanced youth protection online, including potential requirements for e-ID to access social media and stricter barriers for pornographic content.

Peter Stämpfli, a pioneering figure in Swiss pop art, has passed away.

A woman has had a portion of her late husband's ashes converted into a diamond using a complex Swiss patented process, with its bluish tint attributed to his body's boron content.

The first migratory birds have begun to return to Switzerland, signaling the changing seasons.

A Russian state broadcaster has publicly accused the Swiss public broadcaster SRF of manipulation, sparking a media dispute.

Palantir, the data intelligence group, is suing the Swiss magazine Republik, alleging it was not given sufficient right to reply regarding a story that revealed Switzerland rejected Palantir's approaches.

This story focuses on Great Britain's curling team, detailing their semi-final win against Switzerland and their narrow exit from the women's semi-finals after a loss to the USA.

The USA need an extra end to beat Switzerland 7-6 in a dramatic finish to qualify for the women's curling semi-finals, knocking Great Britain out of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

StopAntisemitism founder Liora Rez called for the firing of a Swiss broadcaster who criticized Israeli athlete A.J. Edelman and accused him of supporting "genocide" in Gaza.

Swiss Watch Exports Resume Slump as US Rebound Proves Shortlived  Bloomberg.com

Israeli Olympic officials have lodged an official complaint with a Swiss broadcaster, demanding an apology and an investigation into a commentator's continued employment.

Samir Hussein/Getty Images Billionaire rapper Jay-Z loves luxury watches; the rarer and harder to get, the better. His collection includes timepieces from Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, and Patek Philippe. He's even worn watches valued at $1 million to attend events like the Grammy Awards. Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, has long mentioned his love of luxury timepieces in his songs. You can find references to Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Hublot throughout his decades-long music catalog. He doesn't only flash watches in his lyrics, though. The billionaire rapper, who has a $2.5 billion net worth, has amassed quite a collection of statement timepieces. The $1,075,652 Patek Philippe Grand Complication 5304-301R he wore at the 2025 Grammys was just one of them. Here's a look at that watch and other items included in his watch collection. Jay-Z has a Patek Philippe Grand Complication 5304-301R that retails for more than $1 million. Jay-Z wears a Patek Philippe to the Grammys in 2025. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy ; Patek Philippe Jay-Z is a big fan of Patek Philippe watches. He wore one with a rose-gold case and dozens of diamonds for the 2025 Grammys. Its face includes several functions, such as days of the week and moon phases, that help keep a perpetual calendar for tracking the date. The calendar automatically adjusts for leap years and accurately counts the days until 2100, according to GQ. The hand-stitched strap is made of alligator leather. Beyoncé reportedly gifted him a Hublot Big Bang. Hublot Jay-Z quite literally announced his love of Hublot in the 2011 song "Otis," where he pronounced, "New watch alert: Hublot." Perhaps it was prophetic. In 2012, his wife and fellow artist Beyoncé gifted Jay-Z a $5 million Hublot Big Bang in 18-karat white-gold for his 43rd birthday, according to jewelry blogs. The watch was encrusted with 1,282 diamonds, and it took more than 14 months to assemble, the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève, a foundation that highlights contemporary watches with awards and exhibitions, reported. It also took more than a year to source all the diamonds. A year later, the Swiss watchmaker collaborated with the rapper to design a timepiece under his name. Jay-Z wore his own Hublot watch onstage in 2013. Hublot/Adam Bettcher/Getty Images Hublot released the Shawn Carter Hublot Classic Fusion in yellow gold and black ceramic in 2013. The former watch was priced at $33,900, and the latter at $17,900. The collection was limited to just 350 total pieces, according to GQ. You can't miss his Richard Mille 56 Blueprint watch. Gotham/GC Images via Getty Images/Richard Mille Jay-Z's custom Blueprint Richard Mille 56 watch required more than 3,000 hours to produce, GQ said in 2019. No wonder it cost $2.5 million. During a 2019 show in his hometown of Brooklyn, the rapper freestyled a tribute to the timepiece: "Blueprint on my wrist cost 2.5/Only thing that flips the script between you and I." The rapper later purchased another one-of-a-kind Richard Mille piece — this time in green. Rich Schultz/Getty Images What was the price of that Richard Mille 56 watch? $3 million, according to Complex. Or at least, that was its retail value. Alex Todd, who customized the watch, told the outlet that its monetary value is higher. It was custom-made for Jay-Z and featured rare green sapphire crystals. Jay-Z eventually expanded his collection of Richard Mille watches. The Richard Mille RM011 Felipe Massa watch. Richard Mille He did so with an RM011 Felipe Massa Chronograph in rose gold. The watch was originally released in 2007 and was designed with its namesake, F1 driver Felipe Massa, the brand said on its website. The timepiece is meant to invoke a racing aesthetic and the sport's history of tech innovation. Its crown "resembles a smooth tyre encircling a spoked wheel rim," the maker said. Mille is no longer making this model, but you can get a used one for $215,000. He's worn Richard Mille pieces to attend major sporting events, like the US Open. Richard Mille/Matthew Stockman/Getty Images Jay-Z wore the Richard Mille RM027 Rafael Nadal to watch its namesake take on Novak Djokovic at the 2011 US Open championships. It was designed to be as lightweight as possible and take on all the wear and tear a tennis superstar like Nadal might put it through, Richard Mille said. Nadal referred to it as his "second skin" timepiece. There were only 50 of these watches made at the time, according to Mille. You can buy one on the secondary market for $1.95 million. Nadal collaborated with Richard Mille on several additional versions of this timepiece that the rapper later acquired. Jay-Z has also worn the Richard Mille Rafael Nadal 27-01, which has an anthracite casing. His collection also includes Audemars Piguet watches. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Audemars Piguet Jay-Z shouted out Audemars Piguet in his 2011 "Watch the Throne" track "N—s in Paris," saying: "Ball so hard, got a broken clock / rollies that don't tick-tock / Audemars that's losing time / hidden behind all these big rocks." He's also worn the brand. Included in his collection is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 26585CE. It has an openwork sapphire dial, rose gold dial markers, a black ceramic band and case, and a titanium clasp. You can buy one from the watchmaker, but it's "price upon request" — or, in other words, wildly expensive. To get it on the secondary market, you'll need to shell out over $375,000. Patek Philippe watches can be tough to buy, but not for Jay-Z. The Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon 6002R watch. Patek Philippe When describing the Patek Philippe 6002 Sky Moon Tourbillon watch on its website, the brand notes the extensive detail that went into creating the timepiece. Some of the highlights include handmade engravings, a double-face design, a retrograde perpetual calendar, a sky chart, and more. It's one of the most technically complicated Patek Philippe watches, and its price is only available "on request." However, used versions of the watch can be found on the secondhand market for prices between $4 million and $6 million. Jay-Z wore his model to Lebron James' 39th birthday party. Jay-Z picked up a Tiffany and Co. x Patek Philippe collab in 2021. The Patek Philippe Tiffany watch. Tiffany & Co. The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 in Tiffany Blue initially retailed for $52,635, but since only 170 were made, the price skyrocketed on the secondary market. Days after the watches sold out, one was auctioned off for $6.5 million, CNBC reported in 2021. Jay-Z and Beyoncé were named Tiffany ambassadors that year. In 2023, the musician wore one of the rarest Audemars Piguet pieces. An Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 25594ST "Yves Klein" watch. Audemars Piguet The "Yves Klein" version of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 25594ST watch is an ode to the French artist. He's widely known for developing his own vibrant shade of blue — international Klein blue 191. The Royal Oak design features a perpetual calendar, which keeps track of everything from the time and date to the moon's phases. It's a popular style in its own right, but the Yves Klein version is especially rare. Few are rarely found on the resale market. He also sported a unique Patek Philippe that year. A Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Split Seconds Chronograph 5004P watch. Patek Philippe Jay-Z sported the Perpetual Calendar Split Seconds Chronograph 5004P watch during a decadent, seafood tower-filled lunch meeting with DJ Khaled in 2023. The watch is modeled on Patek Philippe's first perpetual calendar watch, released in 1996. The particular watch that Jay-Z has, the 5004P model with a silver link band, is nearly impossible to find, but it was valued at $600,000 in 2022, according to IFL Watches. The most intricate Patek Philippe watch belongs to Jay-Z. Jay-Z wearing the Patek Phillipe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G in 2019. Patek Philippe/Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Sean Combs The Grandmaster Chime is considered Patek Philippe's most complicated watch, with more than 1,500 individual components. The company made the watch in 2014 to commemorate its 175th anniversary, and only seven were produced. Six went to the watchmaker's most dedicated collectors (who apparently had to apply for the privilege of buying one), while the seventh went to the company's museum in Geneva. Patek Philippe then went on to make the Grandmaster Chime in other fabrications. Jay-Z has the white gold version, which runs around $2.5 million, according to reports. He acquired the Patek Philippe 2499 in a tight-lipped deal. A Patek Philippe 2499 went up for auction in 2011. Harold Cunningham/Getty Images Patek Philippe produced this watch in limited quantities from 1950 to 1985. Only 349 were made. Jay-Z's Patek Philippe 2499 was previously owned by Swedish watch collector and dealer Tony Kavak, who had a yellow-gold band specially made for the piece. As Kavak tells it, the watch wasn't initially for sale. "The watch is so exclusive that I often chose not to wear it in public, and I always wear my watches, that's my philosophy," Kavak told watch site Bezl. But he knew Jay-Z was the right person to own the watch, he added. "You should have seen his happiness," Kavak said in an interview with watch blog Hodinkee. "It just reminded me of how happy I get when I find something rare myself." Neither Kavak nor Jay-Z would reveal the deal's cost, but in 2022, a similar watch sold at auction for $7.68 million. He wore two different F.P. Journe pieces to the 2026 Super Bowl. Jay-Z photographs his daughter at the 2026 Super Bowl. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/Getty Images His first FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain was set with 93 baguette diamonds circling it and even more across its face, according to Celeb Watch Spotter. Jay-Z wore the piece for a meeting with Tom Brady. His wife Beyoncé later shared photos from Super Bowl weekend on her website. They included a close-up shot of another FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain watch, this one in green, on Jay-Z's wrist. Read the original article on Business Insider

A Swiss commentator has caused controversy after he criticized at length an Israeli athlete during the bobsleigh live broadcast at the Milan/Cortina Winter Olympics. The commentator accused Adam Edelman of supporting "genocide in Gaza" and referred to Edelman's public statements on social media.

Swiss television commentary during an Israeli Olympic bobsled run has ignited a fierce reaction.

A Swiss commentator has drawn criticism for remarks made about an Israeli athlete during a bobsleigh live broadcast at the Milan/Cortina Winter Olympics.

A Swiss commentator faced backlash for referring to the Israeli bobsleigh team as 'Zionist' during the Winter Olympics, with his commentary focusing on the athletes' support of actions in Gaza.

The Swiss economy has shown a positive turnaround, swinging back to growth.

The Swiss economy has returned to growth, signaling a positive shift in its economic performance.

Sekou Kone's loan spell at Manchester United continues to deteriorate, highlighting ongoing activity within the academy despite a quiet January transfer window for the first team.

The Swiss transfer window closes on Monday, accelerating talks around this potential move.Swiss club steps up move for Samuel EssendeAs the Swiss transfer window nears its close, BSC Young Boys could ...

One passenger was taken to hospital after the derailment, which police say could have been caused by an avalanche.

A train carrying around 80 people derailed following an avalanche on Monday morning

Two skiers were killed in an off-trail avalanche on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, highlighting dangerous conditions in the Alps.

Swiss friendship in Dubai: Wawrinka shines with Federer in the stands  Khaleej Times

A report indicates that Swiss families are performing well when compared internationally, highlighting their strong position in various well-being metrics.

The Franz Weber Foundation has expressed a sense of vindication regarding a marina project in Uri, Switzerland, indicating a positive outcome for their stance on the development.

The Swiss Franc is expected to continue being sought after as a safe-haven currency amidst global economic uncertainties.

Swiss Franc Could Remain in Demand as Safe Haven  The Wall Street Journal

Iran: new talks with US ‘probably on Thursday in Geneva’  SWI swissinfo.ch

Blizzard in US forces SWISS to cancel flights  SWI swissinfo.ch

A millionaire couple in Zurich illegally claimed hundreds of thousands of francs in AHV supplementary benefits over a decade, a fraud case uncovered by their own self-reporting.

Swiss researchers analyzed what four-legged friends bring into indoor spaces in terms of gases, particles, and microbes.

Peter Thiel's IT company, Palantir, is suing a magazine for publishing articles about Switzerland's refusal of contracts due to fears of American surveillance.

New talks between the United States and Iran are reportedly scheduled to take place in Geneva on Thursday, according to Swissinfo.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated at the opening of the Human Rights Council session in Geneva that human rights are under attack worldwide, with the rule of law being overshadowed by the rule of force.

A woman who purchased a first-class train ticket in Switzerland was forced to sit on the floor due to severe overcrowding during peak hours. Swiss Alliance Swisspass has provided guidance on how passengers should act in such situations.

What it takes for a referendum to be fair  SWI swissinfo.ch

A proposed increase in Switzerland's Value Added Tax (VAT) is being viewed as a necessary and manageable sacrifice for the country's economy.

Sarah Ferguson reportedly stayed at an exclusive mental health and rehabilitation facility in Zurich, Switzerland, from late December to late January, coinciding with the period when Jeffrey Epstein's emails were being leaked.

A 38-year-old Swiss man died after his car crashed into a truck at the Lavorgno rest stop on Sunday for unknown reasons.

Swiss Approval Hellas has withdrawn from the TIC Hellas Association of Certification Bodies, of which it was a founding member, by decision of its CEO, Mr. Tzaferis Meletis.

A report highlights the significant tax benefits available in Switzerland for individuals who fill pension gaps after a divorce, potentially saving over 100,000 Swiss francs, though not everyone can benefit.

Energy Infrastructure Partners from Zurich has invested more than half a billion euros in a subsidiary of the German agricultural trader Baywa. Its crisis has worsened due to changes in R

An exhibition in Winterthur showcases four works from the Swiss support program for young photojournalists «True Picture», depicting statelessness, violence, and a forgotten chapter of Swiss industrial history.

Swiss skier Nadja Kälin delivered a sensational performance, winning a bronze medal in the 50-kilometer cross-country race at the Olympics, following her strong showing in the team sprint.

Swiss Eurovision winner Nemo's glass trophy shattered shortly after being received in 2024, with the incident linked to a protest against Israel.

The first migratory birds have been observed returning to Switzerland, marking the beginning of their seasonal migration back to the region.

The modernization of the Energy Charter is causing a split among Swiss politicians, as reported by SWI swissinfo.ch.

Montenegrin police arrested a 26-year-old woman suspected of stealing 70,000 euros, 1,100 dollars, and 300 Swiss francs from a 70-year-old man's house.

Michael Vogt and his Swiss team sensationally secured a bronze medal in the four-man bobsled event on the final day of the Olympics.

A young man's motorcycle wheelie last spring has led to a dispute between three Swiss public prosecutor's offices over which authority has jurisdiction for the case.

‘We’ll have to live with US tariffs,’ warns SECO head  SWI swissinfo.ch

Lebanon's Hasan to face Swiss legend Wawrinka in Dubai tennis  khaleejtimes.com

This article provides six tips for Swiss homeowners to ensure their mortgages remain financially manageable after retirement, as income often decreases significantly.

A Russian state broadcaster has accused the Swiss public broadcaster SRF of manipulation, sparking a media dispute.

Swiss official says country may have to accept US tariffs as permanent  TradingView

Kandersteg is presented as a serene, year-round destination in the Swiss Alps where nature is paramount and time seems to slow down.

The President of the European Investment Bank asserts that Europe is a superpower, while the editor-in-chief of a leading Swiss newspaper describes the continent as a 'gathering of dwarfs' incapable of growing up. This highlights a contrasting view on Europe's global standing.

Thousands of people gathered in Bern, Switzerland, to participate in the city's annual carnival celebration.

Swiss companies face uncertainty due to fluctuating US tax policies, while a Swiss economic official warns that the country must adapt to ongoing US tariffs.

Manuel Akanji came off the bench to score Inter Milan’s second goal against Lecce and was full of praise for two-assist man Federico Dimarco afterwards, declaring the Italian’s left foot to be amo...

Polish short-track speedskater Kamila Sellier was stretchered off the ice after an opponent's blade sliced over her eye during the Olympic 1500m event.

This report outlines key factors for investors to monitor in the Swiss stock market on February 20, as provided by TradingView.

Men’s team edge tense semi-final battle 8-5 They go for gold in Saturday’s final against Canada Great Britain’s men’s team will play for the curling gold on Saturday night against Canada, after they beat Switzerland 8-5 in an extraordinarily tense semi-final. The team, who only scraped through the round-robin stage because the Italian team lost to the Swiss earlier in the day, had promised that they would be an entirely different proposition if they got to the knockout rounds and they were as good as their word. The Swiss had won all nine games they had played coming into this semi-final, but were soundly beaten by Bruce Mouat and his team of Grant Hardie, Hammy McMillan and Bobby Lammie. Continue reading...

The USA need an extra end to beat Switzerland 7-6 in a dramatic finish to qualify for the women's curling semi-finals, knocking Great Britain out of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Heinz Mueller, a Swiss survivor, shares his harrowing experience of being buried under 30 feet of snow in the Swiss Alps in 1993, describing the immediate feeling as 'panic'.

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has laid the groundwork for an extended liquidity facility, enhancing its financial stability tools.

Swiss sports commentator Stefan Renna faced international criticism for comments he made regarding Israeli bobsledder Adam Edelman's political statements during the Winter Olympics.

"Pressure Is Enormous": Nestle CEO Faces Mounting Scrutiny Amid Infant Formula Crisis Nestlé SA CEO Philipp Navratil is feeling the heat after the world's largest food company recently carried out the biggest recall in its history, pulling infant formula off supermarket shelves after a contaminated ingredient was discovered early last month. Shares have taken a beating, and scrutiny of the recall is intensifying, with prosecutors in Europe opening an investigation. Navratil and his management team are expected to present a turnaround plan for the Swiss foodmaker on Thursday, following the early January recall of its infant formulas. Multiple production sites were found to have cereulide, a toxin that can cause nausea and vomiting. French authorities have received complaints from eight consumers who say their children vomited after consuming Nestlé baby formula, prompting Paris prosecutors to open investigations. In the UK, there have also been 36 reports of suspected food poisoning linked to baby formula consumption. BBC News provided more color to those investigations: Prosecutors in Paris will seek to establish whether the baby formula producers are liable for distributing a tainted product. It will be co-ordinated with local probes into whether there was a causal link between the contaminated formula and the deaths of three babies in France. Nestlé and France's health ministry have stressed there was as-yet no evidence to indicate such a link. In Switzerland, the food giant's shares are little changed year to date, with uncertainty surrounding the baby formula debacle still hanging over sentiment. Zooming out, the stock has retraced to 2018-19 levels. Vontobel analyst Jean-Philippe Bertschy told clients, "The pressure is enormous ... and full-year results have become almost anecdotal, as investors are now squarely focused on the robustness of quality controls in the infant nutrition case and on the strategic update pledged by the new management team." Investors' attention now shifts to Thursday, when the Swiss giant reports full-year results and is expected to unveil its turnaround plan. Bloomberg noted, "Thursday's strategy update may include a reorganization to streamline businesses. Navratil has signaled that he wants to focus on four core divisions — pet care, coffee, nutrition and health, and food and snacking — while centralizing functions such as marketing, an area the company did not invest enough in during years of short-term margin expansion." Vontobel's Bertschy said, "It will be crucial that we receive an update on some of the under-performing units, how they want to reduce the net debt level and how they plan to accelerate the free cash flow. The market will look for a precise roadmap rather than another broad reassurance – a plan that is clearly underpinned by concrete actions, milestones and measurable commitments." Tyler Durden Wed, 02/18/2026 - 08:05

A century ago, the Serra da Estrela mountains were Portugal’s answer to the Swiss health resorts of St Moritz and Davos. Now, a historic sanatorium has been given a 21st-century makeover and is drawing people back to the hills Navigating the high slopes of Portugal’s Serra da Estrela in midwinter requires serious negotiation with the elements, but my guide, João Pedro Sousa, makes it look simple. Angling his lean frame into the wind, he digs his plastic snow-shoes into a steep drift and pauses, scanning the white ridgeline. He’s looking for mariolas – small cairns of rocks, fused by ice, that will indicate our onward trail. “The landscape changes every day so you have to learn how to read it afresh,” he says, setting off again. “At this time of year, nature is a true artist.” I plod inelegantly in his wake, still clumsy in the frames clipped to my boots to keep me from sinking into the powder. At a quartzite outcrop rippled with rose and amber, we pause and drink in the view. Below us, cupped in the glacial scar of the Zêzere valley, is the terracotta-roofed town of Manteigas – founded in the 12th century and today the modest hub for tourism in the region. Ahead, on the horizon, João Pedro points out mainland Portugal’s highest peak, the 1,993-metre Torre, home to a small ski resort suited to beginners. “This region is full of surprises,” he grins. Continue reading...

Tretor and Pictet are collaborating to establish a new accounting partner specifically designed to serve small and medium-sized enterprises in Switzerland.

EXCLUSIVE: A Swiss television network has taken down from its website a viral Winter Olympics clip in which a commentator calls out an Israeli athlete for his “support of the genocide in Gaza.” In correspondence with Deadline, a Radio Télévision Suisse (RTS) spokesperson verified the footage — which has been viewed millions of times on …

The Swiss economy has shown a positive turnaround, swinging back to growth.

FC Augsburg marksman Samuel Essende is on the verge of moving to BSC Young Boys, per the latest Sky Germany update. A full agreement between the Swiss Super League club and the Bavarian side has been...

One passenger was taken to hospital after the derailment, which police say could have been caused by an avalanche.

A 22-year-old Dutch-Swiss man died this weekend after being caught in an avalanche while skiing off-piste in Verbier, Switzerland.

The UN Secretary-General stated in Geneva that human rights are currently under attack globally, emphasizing the ongoing challenges to fundamental freedoms.

A 25-year-old man was found dead under an avalanche in St. Moritz, Switzerland. His family has criticized the Swiss rescue operation.

A former Swiss referee and team official received a suspended sentence in Austria for secretly filming female players of SCR Altach in the locker room, showers, and gym over several years.

Dogs significantly change air in homes, say Swiss scientists  SWI swissinfo.ch

A general overview of daily news and events in Switzerland.

The SVP party in Zurich, Switzerland, has proposed a series of measures, including separate classes for children with poor German language skills, to address what they describe as an immigration crisis.

A former Swiss official from Altach received a seven-month suspended sentence and a 1,200 Euro fine for secretly recording in changing rooms. The verdict is not yet legally binding.

After the Winter Olympics, Swiss Olympian Jonas Hasler returned home, but not before expressing how much he would miss an Italian dessert.

Planned Swiss VAT increase seen as ‘manageable sacrifice’  SWI swissinfo.ch

A proposed increase in Switzerland's VAT is being viewed as a 'manageable sacrifice' by observers, suggesting it is a necessary but acceptable measure.

A report indicates that Swiss families are performing well when compared to families in other countries internationally.

The best Läckerli biscuits don’t come from Basel  SWI swissinfo.ch

Twenty years after its creation, the Human Rights Council is reportedly facing significant pressure.

Serie A giants Inter Milan have reportedly decided to purchase Swiss center-back Manuel Akanji at the end of the season.According to Tuttosport via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri are ready to trigger a b

Swissinfo.ch has published articles discussing the essential elements for a referendum to be considered fair and inviting readers to share their experiences with referendums in their respective countries.

A Swiss official has stated that Switzerland should prepare for the possibility of US tariffs remaining in place indefinitely, necessitating an adjustment to the country's trade strategy.

A new study by the IWP questions existing family policy dogmas in Switzerland, suggesting that nationwide childcare subsidies are inefficient and extended parental leave would offer little additional benefit, while tax deductions are most effective.

A guest commentary highlights an increasing climate of mistrust between Swiss justice authorities and the legal profession, with concerns that lawyers are even suspected of helping clients escape prison by swapping identities.

Swiss firms like Glencore, Mercuria, and Vitol, based in Geneva and Zug, dominate the global trade of oil, metals, and grain. A commentary argues that their significant influence exposes Switzerland and makes it vulnerable, calling for greater transparency.

Swiss downhill skier Franjo von Allmen is lauded as a charismatic and powerful figure at the Olympic Games, celebrated by Switzerland for his archetypal 'daredevil' persona on the slopes.

Swiss bobsledder Nadja Pasternack, a mother, has criticized her federation's rules, stating they limit time with her daughter, and is now questioning her career.

The Swiss four-man bobsled team, consisting of Michael Vogt, Amadou Ndiaye, Mario Aeberhard, and Andreas Haas, secured a historic bronze medal at the Olympia 2026, marking their first medal in the event since 2006.

‘We’ll have to live with US tariffs,’ warns SECO head  SWI swissinfo.ch

Carnival draws thousands to Bern  SWI swissinfo.ch

Swiss athlete Jonas Hasler, known as the 'Tiramisù-Man' for his viral video, discusses his experience competing in Big Air, Halfpipe, and Slopestyle at the Olympics.

The body of a young Italian alpinist, missing since Wednesday, was found after an avalanche in the eastern Swiss Alps.

The Swiss women's curling team lost the Olympic final 5:6 to Sweden, leading to emotional scenes from Alina Pätz and Sven Michel after the defeat.

Two Swiss experts share advice on common pitfalls to avoid during a cruise trip to ensure a successful holiday at sea.

US tax yo-yo blurs situation for Swiss companies  SWI swissinfo.ch

Grasshoppers lost the Zurich city derby 1-2 against FCZ, indicating a likely relegation battle for the record champion until the end of the season.

Switzerland's startup ecosystem is facing challenges as companies leave the country, prompting politicians to consider increased funding, though simpler solutions may exist.

Swiss Federal Councillor Albert Rösti is reportedly pushing through his agenda in Bern, particularly on issues like electricity, water protection, and wolves, often disregarding legal concerns from federal jurists.

Switzerland has been chosen to lead the development of four new museums in Benin.

Thousands of people gathered to participate in the annual Carnival celebrations held in Bern, Switzerland.

The modernization of the Energy Charter Treaty has caused a split among Swiss politicians, sparking debate over its implications.

Swiss entities have been chosen to undertake the development of four new museums in Benin.

Private equity owners have significantly cut the valuation of Swiss watchmaker Breitling, following a faltering performance since a majority stake was sold in 2023.

Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel praised his team’s resilience after they fought back from two goals down to secure a dramatic 2–2 draw against RB Leipzig. The Swiss international also sh...

Team GB will go for gold after beating Switzerland 8-5 to reach the final of the men's curling at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 20 - Rome prosecutors investigating the New Year's Eve bar fire at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana say the testimonies of the Italian survivors who were injured in the disaster match, especially in relation to two elements - that the venue's emergency exits were locked and that co-owner Jessica Moretti fled the scene, sources said on Friday. Six Italian teens were among the 41 people to lose their lives in the disaster. The survivors also said no one gave the people inside the Constellation bar instructions on what to do, extinguishers were not used and the fire took grip within minutes. (ANSA). Read article...

Great Britain's women's curling team has been eliminated from the competition after the USA defeated Switzerland in an extra-end thriller to qualify for the semi-finals.

Inter Milan star Manuel Akanji is reportedly at risk of missing Saturday’s Serie A clash against Lecce.According to Calciomercato via FCInter1908, the Swiss defender could be another high-profile ab...

Alina Müller scored an overtime goal to lead the Swiss women's hockey team to an Olympic bronze medal.

Swiss freeskier Fanny Smith has her medal. Rewind to the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, when Smith finished third in the women’s best-of-four skicross final and thought she had claimed a second career Olympic bronze.

The Olympic slopes saw a 'golden era' for Swiss skiers, including Franjo von Allmen's historic three gold medals, and Mikaela Shiffrin's redemption, creating significant drama from Bormio to Cortina.

Swiss authorities have issued an alert after an avalanche struck the Zermatt ski resort.

American alpine skiing star Mikaela Shiffrin has secured a gold medal in the slalom event, ending her Winter Olympics drought.

Russia's Justice Ministry has designated the Swiss and German successors of the Memorial Rights Group, along with an Arctic research organization, as 'undesirable.'

Swiss watchmaking giant Omega has been the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games for almost 100 years, ensuring accurate tracking of events.

A Swiss commentator sparked controversy after making critical remarks about an Israeli athlete during a bobsleigh live broadcast at the Milan/Cortina Winter Olympics.

Swiss filmmaker Tobias Nölle is returning to the Berlinale Panorama section with his hybrid island portrait 'Tristan Forever,' a decade after winning the Fipresci Prize.

A Swiss television network removed a Winter Olympics clip where a commentator called out an Israeli bobsled athlete for his 'support of genocide in Gaza.'

Trei Cruz is the son of a son of an MLB player, so he knows just how important versatility will be for Detroit Tigers this spring.

Iran said on Monday that the United States’s position on Iran’s nuclear programme “has moved towards a more realistic one”, a day ahead of a second round of US-Iranian talks in Geneva. Tehran’s foreign minister arrived in Geneva for the new round of indirect negotiations with the US, as the Revolutionary Guards began military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane for oil and gas. The two sides recently resumed indirect talks, mediated by Oman, after US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened military action against Iran over a deadly crackdown on protesters last month. A previous attempt at negotiations collapsed when Israel launched surprise strikes on Iran, beginning a 12-day war that Washington briefly joined to bomb Iranian nuclear sites. “A cautious assessment is that, from the discussions that have taken place in Muscat to date, at least what we have been told is that the US position on the Iranian nuclear issue has moved towards a more realistic one,” said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, the official IRNA news agency reported. According to Tehran, talks mediated by Oman will be held on Tuesday in Switzerland. Washington has previously pushed for other topics to be discussed, including Iran’s ballistic missiles and support for armed groups in the region. The war games being conducted by the Guards, the ideological arm of the military, aim to prepare it for “potential security and military threats” in the Strait, Iranian state TV said. Iranian politicians have repeatedly threatened to block the strait, a strategic waterway through which about 20 per cent of global oil passes, as both sides ramp up pressure with talks set to resume. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Monday, “We’re hopeful there’s a deal”. “The president always prefers peaceful outcomes and negotiated outcomes to things.” Meanwhile, Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, wrote on X that he was meeting in Geneva with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, “for deep technical discussion”. Grossi later confirmed the meeting on X, calling the conversation with Araghchi “in-depth” ahead of Tuesday’s “important negotiations”. Protest crackdown Araghchi is also set to hold talks with his Swiss and Omani counterparts as well as other international officials, Iran’s foreign ministry said. “I am in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal. What is not on the table: submission before threats,” Araghchi added on X. Washington has dispatched Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, the White House confirmed on Sunday. The latest talks follow repeated threats from Trump of military action against Tehran, first over Iran’s deadly crackdown on anti-government protests, and then more recently over the country’s nuclear programme. The West fears the programme is aimed at making a bomb, which Tehran denies. On Friday, Trump said a change of government in Iran would be the “best thing that could happen”, as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to ratchet up military pressure. His remarks came before demonstrations outside Iran against its authorities swept a number of cities, including in the US, over the weekend. ‘Viable’ deal Iran’s deputy foreign minister told the BBC that Tehran would consider compromises on its uranium stockpile if Washington lifts sanctions that have crippled the country’s economy. “If we see the sincerity on their (American) part, I am sure we will be on a road to have an agreement,” said Majid Takht-Ravanchi. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that any deal must involve the removal of all enriched uranium from Iran as well as Tehran’s ability to enrich more. The whereabouts of Iran’s stockpile of around 400 kilogrammes of uranium enriched to 60 per cent remains unknown, with inspectors having last seen it in June.

Swiss stocks - Factors to watch on February 16  TradingView

The relentless appreciation of the Swiss Franc, a safe-haven currency, is alarming Swiss companies due to fears about its negative impact on their sales and profits.

A proposal by the anti-immigration Swiss People's Party to cap the country's population at 10 million has garnered enough signatures to proceed to a national referendum in June.