Context: why are neobanks booming in Switzerland?
Switzerland, long known for its traditional big banks with high fees, has seen since 2019 a new generation of 100% digital banks emerge. Yuh (Swissquote–Postfinance JV), Neon (Hypothekarbank Lenzburg), Zak (Banque Cler), Alpian (premium-positioned), Radicant (sustainability-focused). All offer a free private account, polished mobile app and very low foreign fees. The trade-off: no physical branches.
Yuh: trading + banking + 3a in one app
Yuh is the most complete solution. Free private account, virtual Mastercard debit, direct stock/ETF/crypto trading at 0.5% fees, and a 3a account (Yuh 3a) launched in 2024 at 0.4% fees. Limits: international transfers via SEPA only, no checks. Best for centralizing and investing.
Neon: simplicity, interbank FX
Neon is the simplest and cheapest neobank for travel. Free account, physical Mastercard, Visa/Mastercard rate with no markup, free withdrawals up to CHF 200/month (Standard) or CHF 1,000/month (Plus). No trading, no 3a — just pure banking. Best as a travel companion to another bank.
Alpian: the digital-premium bet
Alpian targets wealthier customers: free account with Mastercard Gold, multi-currency, digital wealth management from CHF 10,000, access to investment opportunities usually reserved for private banking. Pricier than Yuh/Neon but with value-add for those with CHF 100,000+ to invest.
Polia 2026 recommendation
Three typical profiles: (1) Frequent travel + simplicity → Neon Standard. (2) Centralize everything (banking + trading + 3a) → Yuh. (3) Wealth > CHF 100,000 → Alpian or keep your cantonal bank + Neon as travel companion. Avoid in 2026: paying CHF 60-120/year for a private account at a traditional big bank when these free alternatives exist.