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Investing doesn’t have to be complicated

Lay the foundation for building long-term wealth.

3 reasons to invest

  • Build wealth

    The right investment strategy can help you build long-term wealth.

  • Protect your purchasing power

    Over the long term, stock returns have typically outpaced inflation, helping you preserve your purchasing power.

  • Achieve your goals

    Whether it’s traveling the world, retiring early or buying a home, investing can help turn your goals into reality.

Investing small amounts? No problem.

You don’t need significant wealth to invest successfully. Even investing a small amount each month can help your money work harder for you over time.

See how CHF 1,000 can grow over 20 years.

Investing for beginners: 6 steps to investing successfully

  • 1. Assess your financial situation

    How much money can I invest?

    Start by creating a financial plan to understand where you stand.

    Make sure you have enough cash on hand to cover living expenses and unexpected costs. As a rule of thumb, keep an emergency fund equal to three to six months of expenses, and factor retirement planning into the equation. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have a clearer picture of how much you can afford to invest.

    Ask yourself:

    • How much do I need to cover my regular expenses?
    • How much should I set aside for emergencies?
    • Will my retirement benefits from the OASI (pillar 1), occupational pension plan (pillar 2), and private retirement savings (pillar 3) replace at least 80% of my final employment income?
    • If not, how can I generate additional income with investments and save specifically for old age?

  • 2. Define your goals and investment horizon

    What are my goals, and by when do I want to achieve them?

    Once your financial plan is in place, you can develop your investment strategy. When it comes to portfolio performance, maintaining a long-term perspective is key.

    Define the financial goals you want to achieve and set a realistic timeline for reaching them. Start by asking yourself a few key questions:

    • What are your short- and long-term goals?
    • For how long are you willing and able to invest your money?

  • 3. Determine your risk profile

    How much investment risk can and do I want to take?

    Taking on more risk can increase your return potential, but it may also lead to greater fluctuations in the value of your investments.

    Your risk profile is based on two factors:

    • Your risk capacity: this reflects how much risk you can afford to take and how much loss you could absorb financially.
    • Your risk appetite: your subjective tolerance for risk and market fluctuations.

    The following questions can help you determine your risk profile:

    • What level of return would you be happy with?
    • Would you prefer to build wealth steadily, or are you willing to take more risk in pursuit of higher returns?
    • Can you afford to take more risk?

  • 4. Choose the right investment solution

    Should I invest in stocks, bonds or gold?

    Different asset classes and investment solutions respond differently to market developments. As a result, they offer different levels of risk and return potential.

    Stocks and ETFs are generally suited to investors with a higher tolerance for risk and a long-term perspective. Investors seeking greater stability may prefer bonds or fixed-term deposits, even if that means accepting lower return potential. Gold is often viewed as a safe-haven asset during periods of market uncertainty.

    Use the table below to compare the main asset classes at a glance. Once you have considered all of the variables, choose your preferred investment solution. Professional advice can help you make an informed decision.

  • 5. Start investing

    Is it better to invest now or to wait for a better opportunity?

    Once you have chosen the right asset classes, it’s time to get started. It doesn’t pay to wait for the perfect moment.

    To get started, you can invest independently with UBS key4 trading or build wealth gradually with a fund savings plan. Our investment solutions comparison can help you identify the option that’s right for you.

  • 6. Think long term

    How often should I adjust my strategy?

    Give your investments time to work for you. Stay invested, even when markets experience temporary declines. Over the long term, return potential remains attractive, while frequent changes to your investment strategy can be costly.

    However, you should still review your investments and goals regularly. Changes such as a new career, starting a family or pursuing a new goal can influence your strategy.

Which investment solution is right for you?

The table below provides an overview of the most important asset classes for new investors.
Overview of asset classes

Investment type

What is it?

Good to know

Who might it suit?

Equities

You invest in a company.

Stocks offer potential returns, but their value can fluctuate significantly.

For people who invest for the long term and can take on more risk.

Funds

Your money is invested together with money from other investors.

Your money is spread across different investments and managed professionally.

For people who want to spread their money across a wide range of investments and seek professional support.

ETFs

An ETF lets you invest in many different assets at once.

This makes it easy to spread your money across a wide range of investments, usually at low cost. The value can still fall.

For people who want to invest for the long term.

Bonds

You lend money to a company or government and receive interest in return.

Their value usually fluctuates less than that of stocks. But risks remain.

For people looking for predictable income.

Fixed-term deposits

You deposit your money for a fixed period at an agreed interest rate.

The interest is predictable. In return, access to your money is limited during the term.

For people who seek security and will not need their money for a certain period.

Gold

You invest in gold.

Gold can help you spread your money across a wider range of investments. But its price can fluctuate significantly.

As a complement to other investments.

How would you like to invest?

Invest according to your goals and plans.

UBS key4 smart investing

Gradually build up your assets

Invest systematically in UBS investment funds.

  • Start investing from as little as CHF 50
  • Invest in up to five funds simultaneously
  • Benefit from higher return potential than a savings account
Discover now

UBS key4 trading

Invest independently

Buy and sell stocks, fund units, bonds or precious metals with ease.

  • Secure custody of your securities
  • Automatic crediting of dividends and coupon payments to your account
  • Monitor your portfolio and trade securities directly in Digital Banking
Open now

Resources and tools for investors

Make getting started with investing easier using our practical tools and resources.
Use the return calculator
See how much return your investments could potentially generate.
Investment webcasts
Learn the essentials of investing in just a few minutes.
Guide to investing
Read expert insights, articles and market trends related to investing.
Discover your investor profile
Do you prefer stability, or are you comfortable taking risks when investing? Take the test!
Investment glossary
Key investing terms – simply explained.
Invest sustainably
How can I invest sustainably? And is it even worth it?

Frequently asked questions about investing for beginners

How would you like to start investing your money?

Explore investment products
Learn about our investment products and find the right way to get started.
Personal consultation
Discuss your goals, aspirations and questions with a client advisor.