Bern, 20 June 2026 – Switzerland continues to modernize its corporate governance and compliance framework through new regulatory measures aimed at increasing transparency and strengthening the integrity of the Swiss business environment.
New Transparency Register for Beneficial Owners
On 12 June 2026, the Swiss Federal Council confirmed that the revised Anti-Money Laundering Act and the new Federal Act on the Transparency of Legal Persons and the Identification of Beneficial Owners will enter into force on 1 October 2026. The reform introduces a federal transparency register requiring companies to disclose and maintain information on their beneficial owners. The objective is to improve corporate transparency, combat money laundering, and align Switzerland with international compliance standards.
For Swiss companies, this means new obligations relating to the identification, verification, documentation, and reporting of beneficial ownership information. Authorities expect the new framework to enhance confidence in Switzerland as a transparent and well-regulated business jurisdiction.
Consultation on Corporate Levy Reform
On 19 June 2026, the Federal Council also launched a consultation regarding amendments to the corporate radio and television levy system. The proposal would revise the fee structure so that larger companies contribute proportionately more than smaller businesses, following a ruling by the Swiss Federal Supreme Court.
Impact for Businesses
These developments demonstrate Switzerland's ongoing focus on corporate transparency, regulatory compliance, and fair business regulation. Companies operating in Switzerland should review their governance structures and ownership records to ensure readiness for the new requirements entering into force later this year.
Source:
Swiss Federal Council News Portal
Federal Office of Justice (FOJ) Press Releases
State Secretariat for International Finance (SIF) – AML & Transparency Register Information