SFI Master Classes

This SFI Master Class is offered in cooperation with the Zürcher Bankenverband (ZBV)

While central banks around the world have been increasing their policy rates, we still live in an environment of historically very low real interest rates. This generates challenges, which are added to those of the current context of higher inflation and higher government debt, countries' unequal recovery from COVID, and war in Europe. There is significant uncertainty regarding the economic outlook, in particular concerning future growth, future inflation, and future interest rates. This is challenging for central banks and governments, but also for the financial sector.

Objective

This Master Class provides the background necessary for understanding the current environment and potential future scenarios. It takes a global perspective, but also places special emphasis on Switzerland, and will enable participants to sharpen their understanding of the drivers of global interest rates and of monetary policies.

The Class will start with a review of the recent evolution of various types of interest rates and the debate around the causes of that evolution. We will discuss the recent strategies of the main central banks, from very loose monetary policies to the current phase of tightening. Special attention will be given to the evolution of yield curves and bank rates in this context. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange on how this affects their daily business and how they cope best.
 
Regarding future prospects, the Master Class will explore the various forces at play, and review the options available to central banks and the interaction between monetary and fiscal policies. 

SFI Master Class Features and Target Audience

SFI Master Classes offer seasoned banking and finance professionals a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and share their professional views with top-level academics and industry experts in an interactive learning environment. Master Classes incorporate hands-on group work and opportunities for discussion. An on-site networking event will follow this Master Class.

This particular Master Class is aimed at professionals in the financial industry who are interested in central bank actions, in global economic questions, and/or are focusing on fixed income investments.

SAQ Recertification

This SFI Master Class is an acknowledged SAQ recertification measure and comprises four learning hours for the following SAQ profiles: 

• Wealth Management Advisor CWMA

• Advisor Affluent Clients

• Advisor Individual Clients

• Certified Corporate Banker CCoB

• Advisor SME Clients

This SFI Master Class covers the "industry knowledge" aspect.

Late cancellations and no-shows

If you have registered for a Master Class but are unable to attend, we kindly ask that you inform us as soon as possible. Places are limited, and late cancellations and no-shows not only prevent those on the waiting list from attending but also result in an inefficient allocation of valuable resources. Your cooperation in communicating any unexpected changes regarding your participation at this Master Class is greatly appreciated.