Rules and regulations within a nationwide legal framework

In 1995, on the basis of the Swiss constitution and in the general interests of the national economy, the Swiss Parliament formally adopted the Federal Act on Stock Exchange and Securities Trading (SESTA). The law entered into force on 1 February 1997, supplanting the cantonal decrees previously in force.

In response to demand from the industry, the federal government created a nationwide legal framework for the operation of a securities exchange and for trading in securities. Both activities essentially fall within the scope of free trade and commerce.