Markets Swiss benchmark index SMI breaks through 14,000 points for the first time
The Swiss stock market is continuing its record-breaking run: on Tuesday afternoon, the SMI benchmark index broke through the 14,000-point mark for the first time. The main drivers were the food companies, above all Nestlé, but also defensive stocks and cyclicals.
24.02.2026, 15:58
SDA
These helped the SMI to break through the psychologically important barrier. As a result, the Swiss stock market was able to escape the negative cues from the USA and the weaker European equity markets. Some tailwind also came from New York, where the two largest stock exchanges are heading for a friendly opening again after the previous day's crash.
Overall, however, the financial markets remain under the spell of US customs policy. The consequences of the US Supreme Court's tariff ruling have not yet been finalized, according to the market. The threat of war between the US and Iran and the potentially disruptive effects of artificial intelligence also remain in the focus of investors. Investors are hoping that US President Donald Trump's speech to the nation on Wednesday night will shed more light on the US government's tariff policy.
The SMI broke through the historic 14,000 mark for the first time at 2.34 pm. It then climbed a little further. At 3.35 p.m., the SMI stood at 14,020 points, 1.1 percent higher than the previous day. Meanwhile, the German stock exchange fell by 0.2 percent, while the French market was up slightly.
Chocolate shares with sweet gains
The Swiss stock market is characterized by its high-quality companies and the robust domestic currency, said a trader. Consumer stocks and insurance companies in particular contributed to the price records. This combination is currently attracting investor money.
The stocks of the food group Nestlé (+2.7 percent) proved to be a major pillar of the SMI on Tuesday. Chocolate manufacturers Barry Callebaut (+6.3 percent) and Lindt&Sprüngli (+2.7 percent) also posted strong gains. The pharmaceutical heavyweights Roche (+1.0 percent) and Novartis (+0.9 percent) also made gains.
