These Are the Best Banks for Third-Pillar (3a) Interest Rates

The comparison platform moneyland.ch examined interest rates on third-pillar accounts, comparing 94 Swiss providers. The unweighted average interest rate currently stands at just 0.27 percent, down from 0.61 percent in January 2025, according to a statement released on Thursday.

«The generally declining interest rate environment has also affected the third pillar», says moneland.ch editor Dan Urner. «Savers are earning less and less on their retirement deposits.»

Some providers, however, offer far above-average rates. The Vaud-based regional bank Caisse d'Épargne d'Aubonne offers the country's highest interest rate at 1.25 percent. The smartphone bank Radicant (0.75 percent) and Crédit Agricole Next Bank (0.65 percent) also stand out with attractive rates.

Notably, the banks offering the highest rates are all smaller Swiss institutions. Many of them - such as Cornèr Bank, Crédit Agricole Next Bank, and Tellco - have consistently ranked among the top interest providers since the beginning of the year.

Major Banks Offer only Average or Low Rates

Switzerland's largest and most well-known banks, by contrast, offer only average or even very low rates. Among the big players, Bank Cler is the most generous with 0.35, followed by Basler Kantonalbank at 0.3 percent. Postfinance, however, is among the lowest-paying institutions, offering a mere 0.05 percent.

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Moneyland advises customers to pay attention to rates and consider switching providers. «Even small differences in interest rates can make a big difference over time,» says Urner.

In addition to the rate itself, customers should also be aware of potential fees. While most third-pillar accounts are free to maintain, charges may apply for account closures, early withdrawals, or transfers to another provider.