“Top quality paper from reputed Indian companies will find takers in Switzerland,” said Marco Estermann, Head — Issuer Relations, Six Swiss Exchange. The need for higher returns (given prevailing low interest rates there) and the cap on investments by pension funds offer an opportunity for well-rated Indian companies, he said.

Diversification of investor base and availing the advantages of a strong Swiss currency are the other benefits for such companies, he said. Indian telecom major Bharti Airtel raised about 350 million Swiss francs recently on this exchange. About 280 top international companies are listed on the exchange. Based on feedback from banks and investors and their experience, Marco said Indian companies which raise a minimum of 100 million Swiss francs in debt or about 70 -80 million Swiss francs in equity would find the fund-raising process beneficial.

The Swiss exchange is particularly strong in sectors, such as specialty chemicals, financial services and life sciences, Marco said. He pointed to the benefits of a cluster driven approach that enabled the listing of a number of peer group companies, leading to improved research coverage, specialised investors, improved trading liquidity and good valuation.

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