Financial outlook: confidence is rising
A representative survey by Comparis shows that a growing part of the Swiss population is confident about their own financial future.
23.12.2025
iStock/Andrzej Rostek
1. Financial outlook in Switzerland is improving
The financial mood in Switzerland has improved slightly compared to previous years. According to a representative survey by Comparis, 27% of respondents that their financial situation will improve in 2026. A year earlier, this share was still 22%. At the same time, the proportion of people who expect a deterioration has fallen : from 27 to currently 24%.
However, half of the respondents assume that their own financial situation will change little in the coming year.
More people are hoping for improvement. However, the basic attitude remains cautious. Overall, the expectation of stability prevails.
2. Hope for a bonus or salary increase drives optimism
The main reason for the optimistic attitude towards the improved financial situation is income.
31%of optimists hope for a higher bonus or a salary increase– either for themselves or for their partner.
28% of respondents expect to get a job change or a promotion to get a better paid job.
Other possible factors play a minor role. Only few of the respondents assume that their financial situation will improve thanks to falling costs, political measures or government relief will noticeably improve.
People rely on their professional opportunities. This shows confidence in the labour market and also that hardly any structural relief is expected. Financial optimism is clearly income- and performance-driven.
3. Young people have high hopes for financial improvement
is particularly pronounced optimism among young adults.
In the age group of 18 to 35-year-olds 45% expect a better financial situation for 2026.
Among 36 to 55-year-olds it is 23%.
Among over-56-year-olds it is only 11%.
Interesting : This reluctance among older people exists despite the fact that pensioners will receive an additional, 13th AHV pension for the first time in 2026.
Michael Kuhn explains the differences : «Young people are often at the beginning of their careers. They expect wage increases, bonus payments and new opportunities. This explains the optimism, but also carries the risk of underestimating long-term challenges – especially when it comes to pension provision.»
4. The higher the wage, the greater the confidence
In addition to age, other factors also influence financial expectations. One example is income : 33% of respondents with a household income above 8,000 francs per month expect an improvement. For people with an income of up to 4,000 francs, on the other hand, it is only 20%.
5. Health insurance and housing costs remain a burden
Those who expect a deterioration for the year 2026 give clear reasons. Around three quarters of respondents state rising health insurance premiums. Almost a third expect higher rents or rising mortgage interest rates.
Rising fixed costs remain the biggest uncertainty factor. They restrict the financial leeway of many households.
This article was first published on 28.12.2023
