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Risk appetite for equities holds firm, yet diversification is paramount.

The Swiss model can be a source of inspiration from multiple angles for developed nations. Instead of relying on currency devaluation to boost manufacturing, Switzerland has focused on quality, resilience, and advanced industries, which has supported a robust economy that is not only often resistant to external shocks, but also anchored by low public debt as a percentage of GDP.

Despite complex geopolitical developments and macroeconomic uncertainty, sustainability-related investments in Switzerland totalled CHF 1,881 billion at the end of 2024 according to the Swiss Sustainable Investments Market Study 2025 – an impressive 13% increase from the previous year.

The Israel–Iran ceasefire has eased concerns about energy prices, thus curbing inflation pressures and maintaining the prospect of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve this autumn. Investor sentiment remains strong, notably on the technology sector. However, the unpredictability of geopolitical developments, coupled with the looming 90-day tariff-pause deadline, leads us to maintain a broad diversification across asset classes and regions.

Today sees the publication of UBP’s fifth annual Sustainability Report. It covers our strategy, progress and achievements in terms of both our investments and our own operations, and also outlines our next steps.

Despite the escalating geopolitical tensions between Israel, Iran and the US, equity and bond markets are – for now – not pricing in a worst-case scenario. In this context, a diversified allocation is warranted to contain tail risks and mitigate mounting volatility. Gold continues to serve as a hedge against extreme shocks.

UBP is taking a three-pronged approach to elevate its private market business as the Swiss bank seeks to deliver a high-quality experience in the increasingly competitive alternatives space, where virtually all private banks are now offering access to differentiated private market investments.

Israel’s ‘pre-emptive’ strikes against Iran on 13 June represent a meaningful escalation in what had been Israel’s ongoing battle against primarily Iranian proxies. The conflict has now shifted towards a direct confrontation between the two regional powers in the Middle East.

UBP made a strong debut in the Switzerland-wide Bike to Work Challenge this May. Over 110 colleagues pedalled with determination, collectively covering more than 26,000 kilometres.

Peter Kinsella, UBP’s Global Head of FX and Commodity Strategy, discussed the outlook for the USD with Andreas Koenig, Amundi’s Head of Currency Management.