Bank CIC Investment Account CHF

0.05% interest with a CHF 100 annual fee. This savings account costs more than it earns.

The Bank CIC Investment Account CHF ranks #28 among Switzerland's 31 savings accounts. Like CIC's standard savings account, it carries the CHF 100 annual relationship fee. But with a lower interest rate, the break-even point is even higher. The numbers don't favor most savers.

Are the Fees Worth It?

At 0.05% per year with a CHF 100 annual fee (CHF 25 per quarter), you need CHF 200,000 in this account just to break even. Below that, you're paying more in fees than you earn in interest. On CHF 100,000, you earn CHF 50 and pay CHF 100. Net loss: CHF 50.

For comparison, Bank CIC's own standard savings account pays 0.20% (break-even at CHF 50,000). This investment version pays less with the same fee. The only explanation is that the investment account may offer different withdrawal or notice terms.

What Actually Stands Out

Four free payment orders per year versus two on the standard savings account. If you need to move money out regularly, having four free transfers is marginally better. The withdrawal limit is CHF 50,000 per year, double the standard account's CHF 25,000.

Bank CIC is a Basel-based bank with a long Swiss history. No notice period is specified, which means potential on-demand access. Your deposits are covered by Swiss deposit insurance up to CHF 100,000.

What Most Reviews Miss

This account loses money for most savers. With a CHF 200,000 break-even point, the vast majority of Swiss savers would be better off with any free savings account, even one paying 0.00%. At least there are no losses.

No age restrictions. Termination details aren't specified. The relationship fee of CHF 25 per quarter applies to your entire CIC banking relationship, not just this account. If you're already paying it for other CIC products, the incremental cost for this account is zero.

The Bottom Line

Only makes sense if you're already a Bank CIC customer paying the relationship fee anyway. As a standalone product, it's one of the worst savings accounts in Switzerland. You literally lose money unless you deposit CHF 200,000+. Compare fee-free alternatives in our best savings accounts in Switzerland ranking.

Verdict: A money-losing proposition for most savers. Only existing CIC customers should consider it.