How to Build an Ethical Investment Portfolio in Switzerland

Ethical investing means putting your money into companies, funds, and sectors that match your values. This could mean avoiding harmful industries like tobacco or weapons, or actively supporting businesses that focus on sustainability, social justice, or clean energy.

In Switzerland, ethical investing is gaining popularity. More people are asking not just how much money they can make, but how that money is made. If you care about people, the planet, and long-term responsibility, an ethical investment portfolio might be the perfect fit for you.

Why ethical investing makes sense in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its financial stability, strong regulatory system, and forward-thinking approach to sustainability. Many Swiss investors already value transparency and quality, so ethical investing is a natural step.

There’s also growing demand for sustainable pension plans, responsible banking options, and ESG-rated funds (Environmental, Social and Governance). Whether you’re saving for retirement or building long-term wealth, investing ethically allows you to grow your money without compromising your values.

And with more platforms now offering accessible ethical options, it’s easier than ever to start.

What goes into an ethical investment portfolio in Switzerland?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but most ethical portfolios are built around these core ideas:

1. Exclusion of harmful industries

This means avoiding investments in companies involved in fossil fuels, arms manufacturing, tobacco, animal testing, or poor labour practices.

Many ethical funds have strict screening processes to make sure your money does not support what you want to avoid.

2. Support for sustainable sectors

Ethical portfolios often include investments in clean energy, health care, education, green technology, or companies with strong human rights records.

These companies aim to do good while also delivering solid financial performance.

3. ESG scoring

Many Swiss banks and platforms now use ESG ratings to measure how responsible a company is in terms of the environment, social impact, and governance.

Funds with strong ESG scores are usually the foundation of most ethical portfolios.

How to get started with ethical investing in Switzerland

If you're ready to build your ethical portfolio, here’s how to begin.

Define your values and goals

Decide what matters most to you. Is it environmental protection? Gender equality? Community investment? Knowing your priorities helps you choose the right funds and strategies.

Choose the right platform

In Switzerland, platforms like Swissquote, True Wealth, Selma Finance, and Inyova all offer ethical or sustainable investment options. Some let you customise your portfolio around causes you care about. Others offer ready-made ESG portfolios that follow ethical guidelines.

Check for transparency, fees, and how they select ethical investments.

Look for sustainable pension options

If you have a Pillar 3a (private pension) in Switzerland, you can now choose investment solutions with ethical or ESG focus. Providers like VIAC and Frankly offer socially responsible investment tracks within 3a accounts.

It’s a powerful way to align your long-term savings with your personal ethics.

Avoid greenwashing

Not every fund that says “green” or “ethical” truly is. Look for clear ESG ratings, independent certification (such as Swiss Sustainable Finance standards), and transparent reporting. Read the fund factsheets and avoid buzzwords without substance.

Pros of building an ethical investment portfolio

• Helps you support positive change while growing your wealth
• Offers long-term growth potential in emerging sectors
• Reflects your personal values in your financial choices
• Often lower volatility in the long term due to strong governance standards
• Access to a wide range of Swiss and international ESG-compliant funds

Things to keep in mind

Ethical investing might mean avoiding high-growth sectors that don’t match your values. That could lead to different returns compared to traditional portfolios. It’s important to stay focused on your goals and not chase short-term performance.

Also, definitions of “ethical” vary. What one fund excludes, another might allow. Take the time to understand the criteria and pick the approach that fits you best.

Final thoughts. Investing with impact starts with you

An ethical investment portfolio in Switzerland is about more than ticking boxes. It’s about choosing financial tools that support the future you believe in. Whether that’s protecting the environment, promoting fairness, or simply doing no harm, your money has power.

You can build a portfolio that grows steadily while staying true to your values—and you don’t have to do it alone.

Ready to invest with purpose?

Download our free app and start building an ethical investment portfolio that fits your values and lifestyle.

Get access to ESG-rated funds, smart portfolio tools, and a personalised plan based on what matters to you. We’ll help you grow your money the responsible way—no guesswork, no jargon.

👉 Download the app now and start investing ethically with confidence

Make your money count. For your future and the world around you.