Cornèr Banca Cornèr3 ranks #2 among 93 3a savings accounts in Switzerland. Cornèr is an established private bank in Lugano, best known for its Cornèrcard credit cards. On 15 October 2026 it raises its 3a rate from 0.60% to 0.70%, the second-highest rate in our database, and it charges no annual account fee.
How Does the Rate Stack Up?
From 15 October 2026, Cornèr3 pays 0.70% (0.60% until 14 October). Only CEA's 1.00% account from a small Vaud regional bank pays more. The market average is around 0.26%, so you earn close to three times what most banks pay. On a maxed-out annual contribution of CHF 7'258, that's about CHF 51 in interest the first year.
There's no account management fee, and paying out at retirement, up to five years before AHV age or on death is free. Leaving early is not: transferring to another provider, emigrating, becoming self-employed or taking an early cash payout costs CHF 100. Using your 3a for a home costs CHF 200 (a pledge costs CHF 100), but both are free if Cornèr finances the property.
What Actually Stands Out
Cornèr is a real private bank, not a cooperative or regional savings institution. Founded in 1952 in Lugano, it manages billions in assets and is one of Switzerland's larger independent banks. You're getting a top-tier savings rate backed by an institution with substantial financial depth.
The bank is a member of esisuisse deposit protection. Opening the account online takes about five minutes, and there's no withholding tax on the interest. If you already use Cornèr credit cards or banking services, consolidating your 3a here simplifies your financial setup.
What Most Reviews Miss
The CHF 100 exit fee matters if you like to chase the best rate. If a better offer comes along, moving your Cornèr3 balance costs CHF 100, roughly two years of interest on one maximum contribution. It's worth it for a large balance and a big rate gap, but it's not free like many 3a transfers are.
The rate is also variable. Cornèr says it can adjust it in line with money and capital markets and the SNB policy rate. This raise goes against the trend of falling 3a rates, but there's no guarantee it lasts. If you prefer to apply on paper, the form and instructions are available in German, French and Italian. The online application and the website are also available in English.
The Bottom Line
Cornèr3 is a strong pick if you want one of the best 3a savings rates from a reputable private bank and plan to stay put. The combination of 0.70% interest from 15 October and no annual fee is hard to beat, as long as you accept the CHF 100 fee to move out later. See how it measures up in our ranking of the best 3a savings accounts in Switzerland.
Verdict: A top-tier 3a savings account backed by a respected Ticino private bank, ideal for savers who value institutional strength alongside a competitive rate.
