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Why Switzerland Boasts 1 Millionaire for every 7 Adults: 7 Habits of the Wealthy

Switzerland, a small, landlocked country in Europe, holds a remarkable distinction: it has the world's highest percentage of millionaires per capita where 1 in 7 adults is a millionaire. In fact, for every 80,000 people in Switzerland, there's one billionaire. How does this tiny nation consistently outpace other countries in terms of wealth accumulation? Let's explore the seven key habits that contribute to the Swiss millionaire mindset as twitted by Arnil Hasan @arnill_dev:

Habit #1: They Rent for Life (& They Love It)

In stark contrast to the American dream of homeownership, the Swiss have a different approach. Only 41% of Swiss adults own their homes, compared to 65% in the United States. Rather than tying up their capital in real estate, Swiss millennials often choose to rent and invest the difference in high-yield assets.

Habit #2: They Treat Saving Like a Bill

While many people save what's left after spending, the Swiss prioritize saving first. They automate a significant portion of their income (typically 20-30%) into savings accounts before touching the remaining funds. This disciplined approach ensures that savings is a non-negotiable part of their financial plan.

Habit #3: Swiss People Invest in Themselves

Education and skill development are paramount to the Swiss. They consistently allocate 5-10% of their income to personal growth, focusing on acquiring high-value skills like languages, technology, and financial literacy. This investment in themselves positions them for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Habit #4: The "Multi-Bank Strategy"

Swiss millionaires understand the importance of diversification. They avoid putting all their eggs in one basket by using multiple banks for different purposes. This strategy includes a local bank for daily transactions, a private bank for wealth management, and an international bank for foreign exchange.

Habit #5: Risk Mitigation & Opportunity Maximization

By utilizing different banks, Swiss investors can benefit from each institution's unique strengths and offerings. For example, one bank might excel in real estate investments, while another specializes in international trades. This approach allows them to mitigate risks and maximize opportunities.

Habit #6: Master "Stealth Wealth"

You won't find Swiss millionaires flaunting designer brands or luxury cars. They prioritize living below their means and reinvesting the surplus. This approach, known as "stealth wealth," is not about deprivation but rather about delayed gratification.

Habit #7: The "Global Citizen" Approach

Swiss investors take a global perspective on wealth management. They diversify their investments across borders and often hold second passports or residencies in other countries. This strategy opens up new financial opportunities and can help optimize their tax situation.


The Swiss millionaire mindset emphasizes patience, long-term thinking, and a disciplined approach to wealth management. By adopting these habits, you can increase your chances of achieving financial independence and building generational wealth. Remember, true wealth is not just about making money but also about keeping and growing it.

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