"The Swiss cantons exhibit varying degrees of economic competitiveness. UBS CIO Wealth Management Research's annual Cantonal Competitiveness Indicator (KWI) uses a multidimensional analysis to measure the 26 cantons’ competitiveness, and, implicitly, their relative growth potential.

The 2013 KWI identified Zug as the Swiss canton with the highest relative long-term growth potential. The other podium finishers are last year's winner and runner-up, Zurich and Basel-Stadt. They are followed by Aargau, Lucerne, Basel-Land and Nidwalden. Schwyz and Vaud are also highly competitive, relatively speaking. Appenzell Ausserrhoden stands out for its clear improvement among the mid-ranked cantons. The last four positions in the ranking are still filled by Jura, Uri, Valais and Graubünden, although Uri and Jura swapped places.

The KWI employs a 10-pillar approach – incorporating more than 50 variables, the growth drivers. This multidimensional view means that cantonal economies can be assessed on the basis of multiple strengths and weaknesses. Depending on the issue, this provides a flexible basic tool for regional strategic decisions."

The report is only available in German and French .