Finance — Stefan Demetz
Robust Investment Strategy for Long-Term Impact
Developments in the international financial markets last spring once again highlighted the importance of a robust and forward-looking investment strategy. Short-term market reactions following trade policy measures led to temporary fluctuations in equity markets.
The Swiss Cancer Institute utilised this period to conduct a detailed review of its securities portfolio. The aim was to ensure that the strategic investment approach remains sound even under changing conditions.
Strategic Liquidity Reserve with a Long-Term Horizon
The Institute’s securities investments serve as a strategic liquidity reserve. They ensure that long-term commitments arising from research projects can be reliably fulfilled.
Like a pension fund, the Institute pursues a long-term investment horizon. Broad diversification across asset classes – including equities, bonds and real estate – helps to mitigate market-related fluctuations whilst generating stable returns.
External Risk Analysis and Governance
The existing investment strategy was reviewed as part of an externally supported risk–return analysis. The results confirmed that the current approach meets both present requirements and expected future developments.
This independent evaluation bolsters the governance structure in the financial sector and provides greater transparency regarding risk exposure and expected returns.
Forward-Looking Leadership and Responsible Resource Management
However, financial stability is not the result of a balanced investment strategy alone. It also depends on a forward-looking management culture. Regular planning processes, systematic analysis of future developments and the careful stewardship of resources ensure the Institute remains able to act.
The overarching objective remains clear: to maximise impact in support of the Institute’s core mission – advancing clinical cancer research.
Foundation for Sustainable Growth
Building on this stable financial foundation, the Institute recorded healthy growth over the past year. This growth is not an end in itself; rather, it enables expanded research activities, the launch of new projects and the long-term advancement of clinical cancer research in Switzerland.
Finance: Stefan Demetz, Chief Financial Officer