The SIX Swiss Exchange has welcomed a new ETF issuer while collaborating on a pivotal upgrade to its settlement infrastructure.
These updates from SIX, announced recently this month, seemingly highlight the exchange’s commitment to product development / technology adoption, efficiency, and international alignment in post-trade services.
One of the announcements involves Waystone Management Services (Ireland) Limited joining SIX Swiss Exchange as a new issuer of exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
This partnership enables Waystone to list and distribute ETFs on the platform, broadening investment options for European investors.
A key highlight of this collaboration is the launch of the Bellevue Global Healthcare ETF, which debuted on the exchange on September 18, 2025.
This ETF focuses on the dynamic global healthcare sector, offering exposure to innovative companies in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices.
With healthcare spending projected to reach $10 trillion worldwide by 2026, the fund taps into a resilient asset class known for its defensive qualities amid economic uncertainties.
The Bellevue Global Healthcare ETF is domiciled in Ireland and managed by Bellevue Asset Management AG, a Swiss-based specialist with over CHF 10 billion in assets under management.
It tracks an index emphasizing sustainable growth in healthcare, incorporating ESG (environmental, social, and governance) criteria to appeal to ethically minded investors.
Listing on SIX Swiss Exchange provides the ETF with access to a transparent, regulated marketplace that handles over 300 listed ETFs, ensuring liquidity and credibility.
For investors, it means diversified access to healthcare industry players like Novartis and Roche, both Swiss giants, alongside international players.
The move aligns with the demand for thematic ETFs, which saw inflows of €50 billion in Europe last year alone.
By joining SIX, Waystone aims to strengthen its role as a third-party ETF provider, now servicing over 200 funds across multiple exchanges.
Complementing this product innovation is an initiative to modernize Switzerland’s securities settlement processes.
Recently, SIX announced a collaboration with the Swiss Securities Post-Trade Council (swissSPTC) to facilitate an efficient transition to a T+1 settlement cycle in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Currently operating on a T+2 standard—where trades settle two business days after execution—the shift to T+1 will shorten this to one day, effective October 11, 2027.
This timeline synchronizes with planned changes in the EU and UK, following North America’s successful adoption of T+1 in May 2024.
The swissSPTC, an independent body representing banks, issuers, and market infrastructure providers including SIX, spearheaded the effort through its T+1 Task Force.
Comprising over 20 stakeholders, the task force analyzed six workstreams: operational processes, international alignment, liquidity management, legal and regulatory considerations, lessons from North America, and communication strategies.
This comprehensive approach ensures a coordinated rollout, minimizing disruptions.
A market consultation launched in September 2025, open until October 10, invites industry feedback to refine the plan.
swissSPTC will unveil detailed recommendations and timelines at an event hosted by SIX on September 23, 2025.
The benefits of T+1 are substantial.
By accelerating settlement, it reduces counterparty risk—the potential loss if one party defaults—by limiting the exposure window.
Enhanced liquidity will allow faster capital recycling, boosting trading volumes and market efficiency.
In a global context, this upgrade fortifies Switzerland’s competitiveness, as delays in alignment could isolate its markets.
SIX executives noted,
“The transition reflects our dedication to resilience and connectivity.”
Regulatory bodies have been engaged throughout, ensuring compliance with evolving standards like those from the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).
These developments collectively position SIX Swiss Exchange at the forefront of financial evolution.
The Waystone-Bellevue ETF launch injects vitality into the investment landscape, while the T+1 collaboration may enable a more solid infrastructure.
As Switzerland navigates geopolitical and economic shifts, such proactive steps not only safeguard stability but also attract international capital.
With operating income exceeding CHF 1.6 billion in 2024, SIX‘s ecosystem—spanning exchanges, post-trading, and payments—continues to thrive, benefiting institutions and a global clientele.