Common questions
See the questions most frequently asked by Strateo’s customers.
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General Questions
Important information Our fees evolve from the 1st of July 2018
Dear client,
In our ongoing effort to provide you with the best of online trading, we would like to inform you of the evolution of our rates from July 1st 2018.
Please take a look at our new pricing structure here : https://www.strateo.ch/en/our-fees/
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your trust and remain at your disposal for any further information.
Best Regards,
The Strateo team
What is the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) ?
Since the 1st of January 2017, banks in Switzerland have been collecting the necessary information for the AEOI.
For more information about the AEOI, please refer to the section "Fiscal questions" below.How to contact us?
Every workday by telephone or fax from 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the following numbers:- Tel.: +41 800 15 30 30
- Fax: +41 (0)22 715 20 21
Via the following e-mail address: info@strateo.ch
You may also pop into our office every workday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
You can contact us by skype (strateo.ch)
What are the opening hours at Strateo?
You are free to visit our offices, every workday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Directions to our office are here.
First steps Which accounts are opened for me when I become client of Strateo?
Strateo offers you a trading account. A trading account is an account in which you hold both your securities portfolio and your available cash.
Our trading accounts are automatically multi-currency. That means that you can have at the same time cash balances in different currencies on your trading account.
On your trading account you have cash in CHF, EUR, GBP, CAD, DKK. You can send funds in these currencies to your trading account at Strateo without having to change them. The account numbers to be used to fund your trading account at Strateo can be found in our document centre ("How to fund your account").
Active traders can also apply for a "Strateo pro" trading account. This is an account for CFD, forex and futures trading.
Do I need to make a minimum deposit when opening an account?
There is no minimum deposit required to open an account (from July 1st 2018).How do I become a proxy on an account?
You may become the proxy of the accounts if the account holder or co-signatory of the accounts has filled in and signed the document power of attorney and handed it in to us along with a copy of your identity card.
How do I change my personal details or settings?
If your personal situation changes (e.g. new address) you need to inform us as soon as possible using the relevant document, which you can find in the Document Centre.
100% online account opening How do I open an account 100% online?
Step 1: Start the registration process
Using our application form, fill in your personal details and tax information, then click on the "Video identification" button. If you do not wish to continue with the video call, you can fill out the application form and send it to us by post.
Step 2: Online identification
A Swisscom agent will contact you (via webcam), and will verify your identity online (using your passport or identity card).
A transaction number (TAN) will be sent to you by sms. You will then need to confirm the identification.
Make sure you have a valid identity document at hand.
Step 3: Online signature
Your contract with Strateo will be displayed. You can sign it using your electronic signature.
Step 4: End of the registration process
If you wish, you can download your account opening application form. Once your account application has been approved by Strateo, your personal access information will be sent to you by post.
What are the advantages of video identification?
- - It's practical: you can open an account from wherever you are, and no longer need to leave the house to have your identity documents certified.
- - It's efficient: you can open an account in less than 10 minutes (you can start trading just 48 hours after your application has been approved).
- - Identification is available in English, French and German
- - Service available from Monday to Saturday, 08:00 to 22:00
Need more information? Don't hesitate to get in contact with us at +41 (0)800 15 30 30
Do I have to be a Swiss resident?
No. Video identification is available to residents of over 20 different countries, and postal identification is available to residents of over 80 countries.
If you do not have access to video identification after having completed the online application form, you will still be able to register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to: Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland.
Do I have to be a Swiss national?
No.
If you do not have access to video identification, you will still be able to register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland.
What are the requirements for completing video identification?
- - You must be over 18 years of age
- - Your identity document (valid identity card or passport) must be issued from one of our authorised countries
From a technical point of view, you will require 3 elements:
- - A stable internet connection
- - A computer, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone with a microphone and webcam (or camera)
- - A mobile phone (for receiving your TAN code by text message)
Can't meet these requirements? No problem: you can still register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Genève, Switzerland.
Which identity documents are accepted?
We accept valid passports and identity cards (country dependant) for the online identification process.
What happens if the video identification cuts out in the middle of the call?
If a technical error causes video identification to be interrupted, you will be sent an email containing a link: you will then need to reconnect quickly to restart the video identification.
What happens after the video identification?
Once your video identification has been successfully completed, your application will be processed by Strateo.
Once your application has been approved, you will receive your personal access information by post, and you will be ready to trade.
Wishing you an excellent trading experience with Strateo!
Payment transactions
Your account at Strateo is a trading account and not a traditional current account. The easiest way to transfer money to your account is by way of a bank transfer. Please indicate Strateo as beneficiary and add your name plus your trading account number in the comment field. Please check the document "How to fund my account" for the detail of the different IBAN accounts to be used according to the currency of your transfer. Alternatively you can use the BVR (Red Impayment slip) which you have received if you are a Swiss resident. Please indicate your name and trading account number in the field for comments/reasons of the transfer.How do I withdraw funds from my account?
On the secure website, you can instruct an outgoing transfer in favour of the reference account that you have indicated in your account application form. For outgoing transfers to other accounts, please provide us with your detailed signed instructions by fax, email with scan or by post. A cash withdrawal in CHF or EUR is possible at our offices (2 days prior notice is required). The bank charges CHF 2 for a payment to an account in Switzerland and CHF 15 to an account abroad.Security How well is Strateo protected?
- At the computer level:
An Internet bank such as Strateo is duty bound to have back-up IT systems in order to avoid any interruptions of services arising from technical problems. With this in mind, the company has four E3 Internet lines at 34 Mbps each, with two separate ISPs, each of whom use a different telecommunications supplier. These Internet lines are connected to routers, which are also backed-up. Several levels of firewalls, all of them with a back-up, guarantee the security of the Strateo networks. The Internet application servers, also known as web servers, have not one but six back-ups. The database servers that they are connected to are distributed in duplicated clusters, which means that if any problems arise in one or more database servers, customers will remain unaffected and the ease of use of the Strateo services will remain the same. This is also the case for back-office management servers, bank accounting servers and National Bank report servers.
A secure channel between your browser and our server gives you access to our network. All confidential information is encoded and, subsequently, cannot be read by third parties. Strateo uses a 128-bit encryption key to send data between the browser of the client and its web servers. Data encrypted using a 128-bit key is 309,485,009,821,345,068,724,781,056 times more difficult to crack than, for example, a 40-bit key.
Your Strateo account is blocked as soon as the wrong confirmation code is entered at the third attempt.
In addition, intrusion detection systems and encryption systems meet the highest standards on the market, thereby guaranteeing optimum confidentiality for our clients, and total security against hackers. All data and documents are backed up on magnetic tapes and also saved onto CD/DVD to guarantee their enduring safety. These are stored in secure areas outside Strateo.
Finally, Strateo has its Internet systems audited once a year over a twelve-hour period by Netcraft Security, one of the world leaders in Internet security. Strateo is the only Swiss bank to offer clients such a guarantee of Internet security.
- At the administrative level:
Your personal information (surname, first name, ...) is not to be found on any single computer of Strateo, which is accessible via the Internet. Only your logon or account number identifies you at Strateo.
Your passwords are mailed to you after you have opened an account. These are never communicated via the telephone.
- Guarantee:
In addition, you are also protected under the deposit guarantee system for up to 100,000 EUR as prescribed by Swiss legislation and applicable to every bank falling under Swiss law.
How do I choose a good password?
Passwords are used to protect your accounts and possessions. Therefore, choose a combination of letters and numbers.
The seven golden rules for a good password are given here below:
- A password is a minimum of 4 and a maximum 255 characters long.
- The password must contain a mixture of letters and numbers or other characters (min. 1 of each).
- Your access password and confirmation code should be different.
- The same character may not be used 3 consecutive times.
- The password must not have a logical sequence of more than 6 characters. E.g. sequential keys on the keyboard (azertyuiop) or sequential numbers (2345678).
- Your password is personal and must not be given to anyone or written down anywhere.
- Never use a simple combination (birth date, wedding anniversary,...)
How often may I change my password?
You may change your password as often as you wish. This is also recommended to ensure your optimal security.
You may change your password in the main menu on our secure web site by clicking on "Your Preferences".
You then have the option of changing your access password, confirmation code and the telephone password.
How can I improve the security of my computer?
Some tips for your own protection on internet
Passwords and codes- Never give your passwords and codes to third parties, not even your close relatives whom you trust. When you open an account with several account holders and/or authorised representatives, Strateo sends each person their personal passwords and codes.
- Change your passwords regularly and follow our 'Seven golden rules for a safe password'. To read them, visit www.strateo.ch and click on 'Your preferences'. Then click on 'Passwords and security' and 'Confirmation code' in the section 'Passwords & security'.
- Always log out with the 'Log out' when you leave your computer or when you surf to other sites, instead of just closing your browser.
Your computer (PC or Mac)- Avoid using public computers (e.g. those in a cybercafé).
- Use modern anti-virus software, which is regularly updated. Make sure that your anti-virus software automatically and on a daily basis checks to see if there are any updates available.
- Use a firewall to keep unauthorised persons from gaining access to your computer through the Internet.
- Keep the software on your computer up-dated (Windows Update for PC / Software Update for Mac). Check weekly to see if updates are available, as these can increase the security of your computer.
Contact your computer specialist for a detailed explanation, and installation if necessary, of the appropriate software.
Should you nevertheless have a virus on your computer, be sure to remove it and then change your passwords immediately. You can also always request new passwords from Strateo. We will then temporarily block the Internet access to your account.
Emails- Do not open email attachments unless you were expecting them.
- Email attachments with jokes can also contain viruses or other unwanted software, even if you know the sender. Make sure that your anti-virus software also scans email attachments. Activate if necessary the anti-virus mail filter of your Internet provider.
- Strateo will never ask for bank account numbers, passwords or codes by email.
- E-mail program software update
E-mail programs can also have security holes. Check regularly for software updates for your e-mail program and install them. - Personal information. Avoid storing personal information (copies ID card, tax statements, communication with the bank,..) in your in-box.
When you call our Helpdesk with a specific question concerning the execution of your orders, they will ask for your account number. For orders by telephone, they will ask for your PIN code on your Strateo ID.
If you notice any anomalies in emails or on our site, please contact our Helpdesk immediately by email at info@strateo.ch or call +41 (22) 715 20 20.
Technical questions What is the minimum configuration required for my PC?
Strateo only supports recent browsers enabling JavaScript and operation systems actively managed by software suppliers. We cannot guarantee a correct functioning, nor an optimal security when you use outdated or not maintained software versions.
If you use e.g. Internet Explorer 8 or an older version, it's possible that you will have some problems. In that case, we advise you to install a more recent browser on your computer.
One of the main advantages of Strateo is that you do not need to install any specific software on your computer or laptop. You can therefore manage your accounts and enter orders using your passwords no matter where you are in the world.
I cannot go through the questions?
If you cannot go through the questions, it is because you do not have Quick Time Player.
Click on the following link to download the program for free : http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/Why can't I open the documents on the site?
The documents you'll find on our site are all in PDF-format.
If you wish to open them you need a program that can read PDF-format, for example Adobe Acrobat Reader.
If you cannot open the documents, you probably do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader or do not have the correct version of this program.
Click here to download this program for free.Fiscal questions Stamp duty and stock exchange charges
Federal stamp duty:
Swiss securities over all markets combined: 0.075% (purchase and sale)
Foreign securities over all markets combined: 0.15% (purchase and sale)
This is an indication only. There are many special rules and exceptions: subscription to and redemption of units of Swiss investment funds, for example, are not subject to stamp duty.
Options are also exempt from stamp duty.Stock Exchange Tax: London: 0.5% (purchase only)
Please note the fiscal information provided is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.What is the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) ?
Switzerland introduced the International Standard for the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to combat tax evasion. This international standard allows the tax authorities of the states who adhered to it to obtain data and financial information on the accounts held by their taxpayers abroad.
Thus, from the 1st of January 2017, banks in Switzerland collect the necessary information for the AEOI.
Are you concerned?
The automatic exchange of information concerns all natural and legal persons whose domicile for tax purposes are in a partner State with which Switzerland has signed an automatic exchange of information agreement:
https://www.sif.admin.ch/sif/en/home/multilateral/steuer_informationsaust/automatischer-informationsaustausch/automatischer-informationsaustausch1.html
Swiss resident customers are not affected.
What information does STRATEO send to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (AFC - Administration fédérale des contributions)?
· Name
· Address
· Birth date
· Tax Identification Number
· Account number
· Total gross income from dividends, interest and other income
· Gross amounts on disposal of financial assets
· Total balance at the end of the calendar year concerned
How does it work?
A customer's information is transmitted by the customer's financial institution to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (AFC), which then transmits the client's information to the tax authority of the customer's country of residence for tax purposes. This exchange of information takes place on an annual basis.
What does this mean to you?
If you are a non-Swiss tax resident and you are a client and/or a beneficial owner of a legal entity, STRATEO must send to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration your name, address, date of birth, account number(s) and Tax identification number, as well as the balance of your accounts as of December 31 (even if the account was closed the previous year) and certain financial flows (interest, dividends, gross sales of financial assets).
Warning!
If you have been registered in our database as a tax resident of a country, but you have become a Swiss resident or a tax resident of another country, please make sure that STRATEO has the correct information and the complete documentation (proof) of this change of address.
The European Savings Directive
In accordance with its agreement with the European Union, cross-border interest payments to individuals resident in an EU member state will be taxed under the European Savings Directive. The client has the choice between a voluntary disclosure of his direct or indirect interest income to the relevant fiscal authorities or a deduction of a withholding (of currently 35%). Legal entities, dividend payments or capital gains are in principle not in scope of this directive.
However income on the sale of the redemption of reinvestment funds with an underlying composition of at least 40% bonds or other forms of debt which are normally subject to EU withholding tax are subject to the European Savings Directive.
Payouts from investment funds (distribution funds) with a underlying composition of at least 15% in debt securities which are normally subject to EU withholding tax are also subject to the European Savings Directive.
Interest paid by Swiss entities is not subject to the European Savings Directive but is however subject to Swiss withholding tax (35%).Interest paid by Swiss legal entities and Swiss banks is subject to a withholding tax of 35%.
This withholding tax applies to interests, dividends and equivalent payments from a Swiss legal entity and to funds issued by a Swiss entity.Swiss residents and being the beneficial owner can reclaim the withholding tax from the relevant tax authorities upon request.
Nonresidents need to refer to the relevant double taxation treaties between their country of fiscal residence and Switzerland.
Please note the fiscal information provided is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.
Special Offer What is the general concept of the special offer?
Strateo clients can sponsor their friends in order for them to become new Strateo clients, using a personal promo code.
If certain conditions of validity are met, Strateo will credit the godfather and the godson (both) CHF 100 each.What exactly do my friends have to do to use the promo code?
Everything is explained in the email that you will receive.
If you choose to copy the code manually for sending, they have to insert this code in the account opening process, in the field "promo code".
If you send them the customized link to the account opening process, they only have to fill in their personal data, your code will already be inserted automatically.What is the maximum amount you can earn thanks to this?
Strateo will credit you up to CHF 1'000 if your friends use your promo code when opening an account.
For example, if 10 of your friends become new Strateo clients and use your promo code, we will credit 10 x 100CHF = 1'000 CHF.
And each of your friends will be credited 100 CHF.
If more than 10 persons use your code, they will all be credited 100 CHF each, but the amount you will be credited will be capped at 1'000 CHF.When will you receive the money?
You and your friends will both be credited CHF 100 during the month following the account opening, if the following conditions are met:
- At least CHF 1'000 have been wired to the account; and
- A first trade has been made -
Authentication
Replacement of the Strateo ID Why is Strateo replacing the current authentication method?
Security and userfriendliness are important to us. We are constantly looking for new and optimal solutions to facilitate and secure your trading operations.
Who should I contact if I have questions about this new way of authenticating?
Our customer service is here to help you. We are available on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on weekdays between 8:30am and 6pm. Or you can send us an e-mail: info@strateo.ch
What should I do with my old Strateo ID?
Treat it as "electronic waste", in the group for small electrical appliances. Bring it to an authorized waste collection point.
You can still activate a second method of authentication after having activated one and use both at the same time.
Until now, most of our customers have been using the Strateo ID - a small device that continuously displays a single-use code. With this method you need to manage several passwords: the access password, confirmation code and e-commerce code. Life is about to become easier! Two options are now available for you to log in and confirm your transactions.
- The SoftKey: You use an app on your smartphone or tablet to log in to the website and confirm payments by scanning secured QR codes displayed on your screen.
- The HardKey: You receive a new device to log in and identify yourself. The HardKey is a brand new, Digipass-type device, which conforms to all current safety regulations. In both cases, you will no longer need to manage passwords or codes, but just your own PIN.
Can I keep working with the current authentication methods?
The date when you will be asked to migrate to the new authentication methods depends on the expiry date of your current Strateo ID. After this expiry date it is no longer possible to use the current procedure.
HardKey of SoftKey, which one suits me best?
Eighty percent of our clients have at least one smart device (smartphone or tablet) and many of them don't like to carry around an extra authentication device. Moreover, more and more clients use the Strateo app to carry out their transactions. For these smart device fans, we have designed the SoftKey. Others will prefer a more traditional method of authentication, such as the well-known Digipass, for their banking operations. The HardKey is the right choice for them. So everyone can choose the method that suits them best.
The HardKey is our new hardware method of authentication. This small Digipass-type device, enables you to log in safely, to view your accounts and make transactions on a laptop, tablet or smartphone.
Can I keep working with the current authentication methods?
The date when you will be asked to migrate to the new authentication methods depends on the expiry date of your current Strateo ID. After this expiry date it is no longer possible to use the current procedures
The SoftKey is our new authentication method software. It is an extra feature of the Strateo app that enables you to log in and make your transactions on the Strateo platform. You will also be able to view your accounts and make transactions from your computer, laptop or mobile device (smartphone or tablet). To use it, you need to activate the SoftKey by scanning a secured QR-code.
I can no longer log in as I have changed phone number
If you have another connection method, you can log in to the secure site and change your phone number. If you do not have another connection method, please contact our customer service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 any working day between 8:30 am and 6 pm.
I did not receive my connection method
Connection methods such as the HardKey digipass or the QR activation code for the SoftKey are sent by post and take an average of 5 to 7 days to arrive.
If you still have not received anything after this period has elapsed, please contact our customer service on +41 800 15 20 20 on any working day between 8:30am and 6pm.Your login is sent by post and takes an average of 3 working days to arrive. If you still have not received anything after this period has elapsed, please contact customer services on +41 800 15 20 20 available any working day between 8:30am and 6pm.
SoftKey Why do I have to create a profile on the Strateo app?
Creating a profile enables you to personalise our app with a name and a picture. Since you can create more than one profile, one device can be used by multiple users, e.g. family tablet, to bank with the Strateo app.
The SoftKey is our new authentication method software. It is an extra feature of the Strateo app that enables you to log in and carry out your transactions on the Strateo platform. You will also be able to view your accounts and make transactions from your computer, laptop or mobile device (smartphone or tablet). To use it, you need to activate the SoftKey by scanning a secured QR-code.
The main feature of the SoftKey is that you only need your smartphone to make transactions, and you certainly have it with you all the time. Thanks to the SoftKey, banking online will become even easier. Another advantage is that you can activate the SoftKey on as many devices as you want, which means you will have one or more spare Softkey. So even if one of your devices is stolen, lost or broken you will never lose access to your accounts.
Using the SoftKey is as safe as using any other authentication device. We have implemented every security regulation to enable you to make your transactions safely.
Why do I have to activate the SoftKey on several devices?
In case you lose the only device on which you have activated the SoftKey, you will be happy to have a spare SoftKey installed on a different device, in order to maintain continuous access to your accounts. No extra SoftKey activated? Thus, to access your accounts again, you will have to activate the SoftKey on a new device. To do that, you need a secured QR-code that will be sent to you via mail, which might take a few days. So to make sure you always have access to your accounts, we strongly advise you to install the SoftKey on several devices. If you only have one smart device (smartphone/tablet), we advise you to use the HardKey.
Do I need to use a mobile data packet subscription to use the SoftKey?
No. You can use the SoftKey via wifi.
What if I buy a new smartphone or tablet?
No problem! You can activate the SoftKey on as many devices as you want. So if you have a new smart device, just log in to www.strateo.ch using your old smartphone, and activate it on your new device.
What happens if my smartphone/tablet is lost/broken or gets stolen?
Don't worry. Nobody can use the SoftKey without your PIN.
IMPORTANT: To make sure you can access your accounts continuously, we advise you to activate the SoftKey on several devices. You can always de-activate it from the menu 'Your Preferences' on our secured website. If you have activated the SoftKey on only one device smartphone or device and one is stolen, lost or does not work anymore, please immediately contact our Customer Service so we can de-activate your SoftKey and help you activate a new one. Please call our Customer Serivce on +41 (0)800 15 20 20, available on business days from 8:30am to 6pm. You can also send us an e-mail at: info@strateo.ch. You will be asked some details including your username to identify yourself.I entered an incorrect PIN on my SoftKey more than once and my SoftKey is deleted.
If you enter an incorrect PIN too many times, your SoftKey profile will be deleted from the app. We advise you to call our Customer Service who will help you activate a new SoftKey. Our Customer Service is available at +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 6pm. You can also send us an email at: info@strateo.ch. You will be asked to provide some details, including your username to identify yourself.
What do I do if I forgot the PIN for my SoftKey?
Your PIN is personal so Keytrade cannot recover it. If you forgot your PIN we advise you to delete your SoftKey profile and call our Customer Service who will help you install the SoftKey. Our Customer Serivce is available at +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 6pm. You can also send us an email: info@strateo.ch. You will be asked to provide some details, including your username to identify yourself.
My tablet is also used by other people in my family. Is this a problem?
No. The SoftKey is protected by a personal 6-digit PIN. For iPads and smartphones, Android and iOS, our app, containing the SoftKey, is designed to be used by multiple users. On a shared device, each user can use their SoftKey to view their accounts, but can neither view the other's accounts, nor carry out transactions.
Do I have to pay for the new SoftKey?
No. This new authentication method is free. If you use the SoftKey, you can activate it as many times you want.
Can somebody else use my SoftKey to log in and confirm transactions?
No. The SoftKey is personal. So a partner, relatives or friends cannot use it to scan a secured QR code.
On which smartphone or tablet can I activate the SoftKey?
The SoftKey can be activated on any iOS device, iPhone and iPad, and Android devices. Minimum version requirements : iOS 9.0 Android 5.0
How do I activate the SoftKey?
The SoftKey is an element of the Strateo app. If you haven't installed it on the smart device you want to use, you must first download it. If you have an iOS device, go to the App Store and search for: Strateo - Download the Strateo app the SoftKey is built-in. If you have an Android device, go to the Google Playstore and search for Strateo - Download the Strateo app the SoftKey is built-in. Then log in to our secured website www.strateo.ch". Strateo.ch and go to "Your preferences". There you will be able to manage your authentication methods.
Can I activate the SoftKey on my tablet?
Yes you can activate it on an iPad and on Android tablets.
What if I have difficulties activating the SoftKey?
If you have trouble activating your SoftKey, please call our Customer Service on +41 0(800) 15 20 20, available on business days from 8:30am to 6pm. You will be asked to provide some details, including your username to identify yourself.
What if the lense on my mobile device is broken?
Then you will no longer be able to scan the secured QR-code. Therefore, we advise that you install the SoftKey on multiple devices. Don't have an extra SoftKey activated? Then you'll need to activate the SoftKey to access your account again. To do so, you need a secured QR-code that will be sent to you in a letter, which will take a few days. So, to be sure that you have continuous access to your accounts, we advise that you activate the Softkey on several devices. If you only have one smart device (smartphone or tablet), we advise that you choose the HardKey.
What is the difference between a colored QR and a black and white QR?
Strateo has chosen to work exclusively with colored QR codes "crontosign". This is a technology developed especially for the financial sector which ensures very high levels of readability and speed, even if you are using an older smart device.
How many PINs do I have to remember?
Each SoftKey has a 6-digits PIN, which is personal. This means that if you activate the SoftKey on several devices, you may select a different PIN for each one. If more than one person uses the SoftKey on the same device, e.g. the family Ipad, each user will of course have their own PIN. Make sure you create a secured PIN, which is not easy to crack. Do not choose dates of birth, a set of identical digits or a sequence.
You can always change your PIN in the stettings of your SoftKey on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you create a secured PIN, which is not easy to crack. Do not choose date of birth, a set of identical digits or a sequence.
I have a smart device, but only want to bank via my laptop or PC. Is SoftKey for me?
Yes! We have also designed a SoftKey that may be used as a separated app just to identify yourself. This enables you to log in to our secured website and make transactions from your computer without having to install the full version of the Strateo app on your smartphone.
Can I confirm all transactions with my smartphone or tablet?
Most payments and market transactions can be confirmed with your smartphone or tablet. Only for confirming transactions with larger amounts and orders on OTC BB markets we ask you to log in on the desktop website.
Can I download the SoftKey from abroad?
You can download the SoftKey from the relevant iOS app stores and Google Play stores in the following countries: Belgium, Germany, France, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. If your iOS or Google account is located in another country, we advise that you use the HardKey.
What should I do if I have a SoftKey and I'm switching to a new device?
Once you have the SoftKey, you can install it on multiple devices. If you are switching to a new device we ask that you log in to our secure website with your initial device, and activate a new instance of the SoftKey on your new device via "Your preferences". Afterwards you can delete your profile with the SoftKey on your initial device.
HardKey The HardKey is our new hardware method of authentication. This small Digipass-type device, enables you to log in safely, to view your account and make transactions on a laptop, tablet or smartphone.
If you don't have any device or have just one smartphone or tablet available to activate the SoftKey on, or if you prefer not to use your smart devices for banking, the HardKey is the perfect choice for you.
What are the disadvantages of the HardKey?
You always need to have it with you to carry out transactions, even if it's on a mobile device.
Can somebody else use my HardKey to log in and confirm transactions?
No. The HadKey is personal, meaning that you can not lend it to partners, relatives or friends. If other housemates also have a HardKey, then each one can personalise his own HardKey, for exemple with a sticker to recognise it more easily.
What do I do if I ordered a HardKey and it hasn't arrived yet?
Delivery is always dependent on postal delivery times. We send the initial PIN code and the HardKey in two separate letters at an interval of two to three weekdays. If there has been a long delay, please contact our customer service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20, available on business days between 8:30 am and 6pm. You can also send us an email at info@strateo.ch. You will be asked to identify yourself by giving details including your username.
What do I do if my HardKey is not working anymore?
If you have another authentication method, such as the SoftKey, you can use it to log in to our website. In the menu 'Preferences' you can de-activate your old HardKey and order a new one. If the HardKey was your only authentication method, please contact our Client Service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20, available on business days between 8:30am and 6pm. You can also send us an e-mail at: info@Strateo.ch. You will be asked to identify yourself by giving details including your username.
What happens if I lose my HardKey or if it gets stolen?
Just like a bank card, nobody can use a HardKey without the PIN. Please call our customer service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 18pm. We will help you to de-activate your HardKey and order and activate a new one. You can also send us an e-mail at: info@strateo.ch. You will be asked to identify yourself by giving details including your username.
How long does the battery of a HardKey last?
The average lifetime of a HardKey is 5 tot 7 years. When the battery is nearly empty, a messae appears on the screen of your HardKey.
Where should I store my HardKey?
Please make sure to keep your HardKey in a safe and dry environment. Do not exposeit to extremely high or low temperatures.
I used my HardKey to generate a code but I entered a wrong code several times.
Please contact the Customer Service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on weekdays between 8:30am and 6pm. We will then help you to unblock your HardKey. You will be asked to identify yourself by giving details, including your username.
What in case I lose the PIN code of my HardKey?
Your PIN is personal and not known by Strateo. If you lost your PIN code we ask you to contact us on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 6pm.
What in case I lost my HardKey?
Your HardKey is personal and cannot be used without PIN code. If you lost the HardKey we ask you to contact us on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 6pm.
How much time do I have to activate the HardKey?
We ask you to activate the HardKey within 30 days after ordering it. If you have not receive it two weeks after ordering, please take contact with us on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on business days between 8:30am and 6pm.
How can I change the PIN of my HardKey?
To change you PIN code, press "OK". Go to "5.SETTINGS", press "OK", choose "1.CHANGE PIN" and encode your actual PIN then your new PIN.
Can I change the size of the text on the screen of my HardKey?
Yes. Once you see the code on the screen of your HardKey, press the "Ok" button. The code will be displayed bigger.
How can I change the language of my HardKey?
The standard language of the HardKey is English, even if you use the website or the app in another language. To change the language, press "OK" on your HardKey. Go to "5.Settings" and press "OK". Choose the language you want and press "OK".
The PIN of your HardKey is personal and is not stored at Strateo.
If you have not received the PIN or do not remember it, you must reset your HardKey.
Here's how:
A. Lock your HardKey
To be able to reset your HardKey and create a new PIN, you must first lock it. How do I lock my HardKey?- Turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and choose option 1 "Login".
- Enter an incorrect PIN.
Your HardKey tells you that there is a "PIN error". Press OK.
It will then show how may incorrect attempts have been made with "Wrong PIN: 1". Press OK. - Re-enter an incorrect PIN and repeat step 2 until the message "Time lock" appears. "Time lock" is a 5-minute period during which you cannot use your HardKey.
- After 5 minutes, turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and enter an incorrect PIN again.
- Your HardKey displays "Incorrect PIN: 4". Press "OK" and wait another 5 minutes for "Time lock"
- After these 5 minutes, turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and enter an incorrect PIN one last time.
B. Unlock code
To obtain your unlock code, please have your HardKey to hand and contact us on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on a working day between 8.30 am and 6 pm.After confirming your identity, Customer Service will ask you for the lock code and will tell you the unlock code to be entered into the HardKey.
You will then be able to create your new PIN for your HardKey. This is a 4-digit code.What is the unlock code and why do I need to provide it?
If your HardKey asks you for this code, this means that your HardKey is locked. In order to reactivate it, contact our customer service on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 available any working day between 8:30 am and 6pm. First of all, we will need to identify you asking some security questions. We will then ask you for the lock code shown on your HardKey and send you the unlock code to enter into your HardKey to unlock it.
How do I activate my HardKey and link it to my account?
To activate your HardKey, follow the instructions on the link below.
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Trading & Investing
My account overview Where do I find the new portfolio?
Once you have logged into our website, under the tab Trading > Portfolio you will see a bar near the top saying 'Switch to the new version'. If you click on that you will automatically be shown the new portfolio display. You can use the same route to switch back to the details of the old portfolio.
Which accounts can I see in my portfolio overview?
In the portfolio view you can see all the trading accounts where you are the account holder or you have the right of signature. If you are not the account holder, this is shown by means of a label 'Not holder'.
Note: If you are the operator of an account, then you can carry out all types of transaction for this account. If you do not have the right of signature (e.g. in an investment club) then you can only query the account. In that case you cannot carry out any transactions, and the buy and sell buttons will not be active.
Why can I not see any information about my Strateo Pro accounts?
Strateo Pro is a separate platform and that is why we do not show this information in this portfolio. Use the platform or the web version of Strateo Pro to find the information for these accounts.
How can I view my trading account?
If you click in your portfolio overview on a trading account, then you will immediately see an overview of this account. In this view you can easily look up the total value of your trading account, as well as seeing individual positions, cash values and your orders (on different tabs).
What return is shown in the performance chart?
If you click top right on 'Charts', you will see a performance chart showing your account's returns over the past 12 months. This is the return on your portfolio calculated from the same day of the previous year until now, so it gives you an indication of your portfolio's performance over the year.
How is the return over the past 12 months calculated?
Your account's return over the past 12 months (indicated as '12M') shows the percentage return for all positions that are still present on your trading account (taking into account your cash transfers in and out, and any transfers in or out of shares). This return is calculated using the MWR (Money-Weighted Return) method.
Attention! Your account's return is not the same as the individual return rates of your positions which you find in the tab 'Positions'. These individual rates are based on the difference between the current price and the break-even price of a certain instrument.
Example: Imagine that you bought, in September 2009, stocks of company X at 30 CHF (excl. costs and taxes), and that you haven't sold or bought anything up to now. This means that the break-even price equals 30 CHF. If the current price is 45 CHF, then the return (excl. costs and taxes) is 15 CHF (45 EUR/30 CHF). This corresponds with a return rate of 50% over a period of 5 years (return/investments, so 15 CHF/30CHF).
Also the total return rate which you find below every group (market, instrument type or A-Z), shows you the return in percentage over all positions within this group. This means that this rate is based on the individual returns of these positions.
I don't see the return on some accounts. Why is that?
For certain types of product in Strateo, it is not possible to view the YTD return.
For some, including Treetop, Merit Capital and Wealtheon, the return is calculated by the manager. This return is shown in the detailed annual reports that they send you.
You can see the latest market news by clicking top right on the 'News' button.
How can I export all my positions to an external file?
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and click on 'Export as'. Then you can select the file format you want (Excel, XML or CSV). Finally, you can opt to either open this file or store it on your computer.
How can I exchange currencies?
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and click on 'Currency Exchange'. Then you can simply enter an exchange order.
How do I view my trading account and positions in a different currency?
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and select the currency you want from the Display currency' menu.
Note: This is simply a different way of displaying the values. Your financial instruments' actual values and currencies remain unchanged.
How can I transfer money from my trading account to my current or savings account?
If you want to transfer money from your trading account, you can do this very simply, by clicking top right on 'Tools' and then on 'Transfer money'. Then you enter the amount, select the right account number and confirm the transfer.
Note: You can only transfer money in CHF. And you must remember to allow for the value date.
What is shown in each of the different views (Basic, Performance, Fundamentals and Detailed)?
In order to show you the information about your portfolio that interests you the most straight away, we have created a number of views. These views each include different data, offering you a number of different perspectives. You can even create a new view for yourself. The view you selected most recently is remembered for each account, so when you return to your portfolio you immediately see your favourite view.
- The Basic view shows the number of units, the purchase or break-even price (BEP), the current price and today's market value.
- For each position, the Performance view shows the performance of the instrument as well as the return in percentages and in points, as well as the change since the closing price on the previous trading day.
- The Fundamentals overview shows relevant information for each type of instrument. So for a share you can immediately see its price, earnings per share (EPS), price/earnings ratio (P/E), and its market capitalisation (M) and the dividend per share. For a fund it will be its price, its Diamond Rating, its risk, its volatility and the fund value that you will see. For an option you will see its price, expiration date and the exercise price of the option.
- The Detailed view shows more
detailed information for each instrument in your portfolio, together with a
historical chart where this is available.
One important point is that you cannot change the Fundamentals and Detailed views. But you can edit the Basic and Performance views. Just click the Edit link to the right of 'Views'.
Click on the pencil to the right of 'Views'. In the screen that is then displayed, you can select at the top on the right what it is you want to change.
In the left-hand frame you have a list of all the columns that you can display in the view. Drag the column you want from the left-hand frame (headed 'Available columns') to the right-hand frame (headed 'Columns in your view'). If you want to change the sequence of the columns in your view, you can do this by dragging them to a different position within the right-hand frame. You can also remove selected columns from your view by clicking on the waste-bin icon next to the column in the right-hand frame. Finally, close the screen to save your changes.
Note: You cannot amend the Fundamentals and Detailed views. You can change the others.
Click on the pencil to the right of 'Views'. In the screen that is displayed, click on the plus sign at the top on the right. Enter the name you want to give your new view at the top, and then click on the disk icon. Then you can select the columns you want. When you close the screen, these columns are automatically saved.
The new view you have created is automatically available for your other accounts.
The buttons to the left of each position with a plus and a minus sign are the rapid purchase and sales buttons. If you click on the green button with the plus sign, you can very quickly buy additional shares. If you click on the red button with the minus sign, you can very quickly sell some or all of the shares in this position.
Top right in the 'Positions' tab you will see 'Group by'. There you can choose grouping by market, by instrument or no grouping.
How can I see the history of a position?
You can easily look up the history of a position by clicking on the blue button with the three dots to the left of the position. Then you can select 'Transaction history for this instrument' to see the history for this position.
Another way is to go to the 'History' tab and then search for your instrument by name. Then you will also see the history per instrument.
How can I see more details for a position?
If you click on the 'Name/Symbol' of your position in the 'Positions' tab, you will immediately see more details for that specific instrument.
What exactly is the break-even price (BEP)?
The break-even price (BEP) for a position is the selling price you need to achieve to recover your costs for the position, allowing for the purchase and sales costs which you have already incurred for this position.
How can I modify my break-even price (BEP)?
Now you are able to modify the break-even price (BEP) yourself. The BEP can be changed in the positions screen by clicking on the BEP field for a given position. A frame will then appear where you can enter and save the BEP you want.
Want to go back to the original BEP? You can enter '0' in the BEP field. When the page has been refreshed (press the F5 key to do so), you will again see the original BEP.
Note: If you buy or sell these products again, then the BEP will be calculated on the basis of this amended BEP.
How can I switch the 'Auto Sell' function (for options) on or off?
To the left of your option positions, you will see a blue button with three dots. If you click on this button, you can switch the 'Auto Sell' function on or off. By default, the 'Auto Sell' function is always switched on.
Note: It is only possible to switch the 'Auto Sell' function on or off for options.
What is the difference between available and reserved cash?
In the 'Cash' tab, you will see all the cash on your trading account that is not invested in financial instruments.
Your available cash is the difference between your total cash and your reserved cash.
Your reserved cash shows cash that is blocked for orders in process that have not yet been executed. The reserved cash also shows the costs and taxes arising from orders in process and/or issued put options.
Where do I see my orders in process?
In the 'Orders' tab, you will see pending orders (that have not yet been executed). You can use either the 'Basic' or the 'Detailed' view to see the information which interests you most.
Where can I see my executed, rejected or cancelled orders?
In the 'Orders' tab, you will see all of your executed, cancelled or rejected orders. You can use either the 'Basic' or the 'Detailed' view to see the information which interests you most. In addition you can select the time period you want to see (day, week, month).
In the 'Orders' tab, you can check the orders you want to cancel. Then you enter the confirmation code (if one is needed) and click on the button 'Confirm removal?.
If you have defined in Your preferences > Site preferences > Order preference that no confirmation code is required before placing stock market orders, then you do not need to enter one here, but can immediately confirm your deletions by clicking on the 'Confirm removal' button.
How can I look up the history of a position?
In the 'History' tab, you can view the transaction history of your trading account. Then you can view the history of a single instrument by searching for it by name or symbol. You can also select the period you want to see.
If you would like to see more information for each transaction, you can download a PDF by clicking on the PDF icon in the first column on the left.
You will also find two PDFs at the top of the history with an overview of the entire portfolio: one for the last day of the previous year and one for the most recent trading day.
Why is the total amount of my trading account higher in the new portfolio?
In the new portfolio, two corrections were made to the calculation of the total amount of your trading account. On the one hand, the accrued interests of your bonds are incorporated in the total amount of your trading account. On the other hand, the costs and taxes are only subtracted from the total amount when the orders are effectively executed.
How to find a share? How do I find the price of a share?
You can find shares (or other financial products) very easily. Please click on « Trading » and « Invest » on the homepage of the secure site to find the search engine. You have the option to search on Symbol, name or ISIN and by market. An easy and quick way is also to type name or symbol in the « search » function which you find on the top right on the homepage.How to activate real time quotes? How do I activate real-time quotes?
By default real-time quotes are not activated on your account. In order to activate real time quotes for one or several other markets, please use "Your preferences" and "Quotes". We offer real time quotes for 7 market groups. Please use your confirmation code to confirm your choice. Real time quotes are offered free of charge of the Swiss market and are free for other markets from 3 trades per month for the relevant market group.
For any questions please contact us by phone on 0800 15 20 20 (from abroad: +41 800 15 20 20), by email to info@strateo.ch or by Skype (ID strateo.ch) between 8.30 am and 6 pm (Monday to Friday).
How to transfer securities to my account? How to transfer securities to your new portfolio?
The first possibility is to instruct your bank to deliver your securities to your portfolio at Strateo. Alternatively we can take care of the process for you.If you would like to mandate us to arrange the transfer on your behalf, please return a duly signed copy by post of the document "Mandate Securities Transfer". You can find the document in the Document Center on the website.Strateo charges no fees for incoming securities. However there might be charges on the side of the bank where you currently hold the securities.About dividends
A dividend is the payout of a portion of the corporate profit of a company to its shareholders. The Board of Directors of a company makes a dividend proposal, that has to be approved by its shareholders on the Annual Meeting of shareholders. Usually, the dividend is paid out a couple of days or weeks after the Meeting, if approved during that meeting.
Since a majority of the (Swiss) companies plan their Annual Meeting in April, May or June, it is quite logic that most dividends are distributed in these months.
We can distinguish different types of dividends: although a dividend is mostly paid in cash, it also occurs that dividends are paid in shares.
The frequency of a dividend payment can differ as well. Most dividends are paid once a year, but in other countries (e.g. United Kingdom, United States, ...), a quarterly or semestral dividend payment is more frequent.In which case are you entitled to a dividend?
In order to be able to claim a dividend, you need to possess the stock on the ex-dividend day. On this day, the value of the dividend will be deducted from the share's value.
You need to buy a stock during the day prior to the ex-dividend day at the latest in order to be entitled to claim the dividend. The dividend is deducted from the stock's value before market opening on the ex-dividend day. So, the stock is trading "ex dividend" as of the ex-dividend day. Whoever buys the stock on the ex-dividend day or later won't be entitled to claim the dividend.
Example: A certain share has a value of 10 CHF and the company decides to pay a dividend of 1 CHF. As of the ex-dividend day, the share will have a value of 9 CHF. Investors who have the stock on their trading account, will automatically receive the dividend on that account.How to proceed in case of a dividend payment?
If you are entitled to a dividend, you won't have to do anything. When you have the stock on your trading account, the dividend will be automatically booked on your trading account.
You have to take into account that there's often a difference between the ex-dividend date and the date on which the dividend will be paid out (the pay date). The pay date is typically a couple of days or a couple of weeks after the ex-dividend date. The tax that you are due will automatically be withheld by Strateo.How do I know if and when a company will be paying a dividend?
This kind of information is published on the company's website. For most listed companies, you will find a section "investor relations" on their website. In this section, you will be able to find more information on dividends.
Usually, this information is published in the (financial) press as well.How will I be taxed when receiving a foreign dividend?
When you receive a foreign dividend, you are only subject to withholding tax to the country of your residence (except for US dividends that Switzerland applies a 15% additional withholding tax for Swiss residents). The withholding tax is based on the country of origin of the company that pays the dividend and applies to the gross dividend.How to recover a part of the withholding tax of a foreign dividend?
It depends on the nature of the income and the country which they came from. Switzerland has signed agreements against double taxation with many countries so it is usually possible to recover all or part of the foreign withholding tax.
Part of the withholding tax can be recovered directly in the country of source.
The forms in order to request the application of a Convention are available on the website of the Federal Tax Administration in Berne.
What are the different types of dividends?
The most common types of dividends are:
- Cash dividend
- Choice dividend
- Stock dividend
- DRIP (Dividend Reinvestment Plan)
A cash dividend corresponds to a dividend paid entirely in cash. A dividend paid by a Swiss company is subject to the Swiss withholding tax of 35% (whether you are resident in Switzerland or abroad). A dividend paid by a foreign company is not subject to Swiss withholding tax but is subject to withholding tax at the local source.
A choice dividend gives the shareholder the opportunity to chose between a payment in cash or in stocks.
On the ex dividend date of a choice dividend, you'll receive dividend rights on your trading account. These dividend rights will appear in the section "other markets" of your trading account.
If you do not indicate a preference, dividends will by default be paid out in cash by Strateo.
If you prefer to receive a choice dividend in cash, you do not have to do anything. It will be paid in cash by default.
If you prefer to receive choice dividends in stocks, you can communicate your choice through our website. There is a tool available on our platform which allows you to tell us that you always want to receive a choice dividend in stocks (whenever such a choice dividend is offered).
Despite your choice of receiving choice dividend in stock, it may occur that choice dividend are paid in cash nonetheless. This is due to the "conversion multiple": a certain amount of dividend rights is required to be entitled to one whole new stock. If you are not holding enough dividend rights to be entitled to a whole new stock, the choice dividend can be paid out in cash, despite your preference to receive choice dividend in stocks.
A stock dividend is a dividend that is automatically paid out in stocks. Shareholders don?t have the possibility to opt for a payment in cash.
In case of a stock dividend, on or after the ex-dividend date, dividend rights will be booked on your trading account. You fill find these dividend rights in the section ?other markets? of your trading account.
How do I know which type of dividend a company will be paying?
This kind of information is often available in the section 'Investor Relations' of the company's website.What is the procedure for fractions?
When a choice dividend or DRIP dividend is distributed, there might be fractions of unused dividend rights left on your trading account. This is the case when not all of the dividend rights can be converted into whole new shares, because of the conversion multiple.
If the fractions equal the value of at least half a stock, Strateo will normally* convert these fractions into one new stock. If the fractions don't equal at least half a stock, they won't be used to be converted into a new stock.
You will have to pay the value of the fractions needed in order to receive an entire new stock (if your fractions equal the value of at least half a new stock). On the other hand, you will receive the value of the fractions that have been sold on your account if the fractions don't equal at least half a stock.
In both of the above mentioned cases, Strateo charges a transaction fee of 2.5 EUR.
* Exceptionally, it may occur that a dividend paying company insists that fractions of unused dividend rights are automatically not converted into a new share, even if those fractions of unused dividend rights equal the value of at least half a stock.
How do I communicate my preferences with regard to dividends?
In most cases, shareholder cannot make a choice with regard to dividends. A cash dividend is always paid out in cash. In case of a stock dividend, you receive stocks as a dividend. In both cases (cash dividend, stock dividend), no alternatives exist.
In case of a choice dividend or a DRIP dividend, there is a possibility to make a choice as shareholder.
With regard to stocks listed on Euronext (Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris), it is possible to use a tool on the secured website which allows you to tell us whether you prefer choice dividend (or DRIP dividends) to be paid in cash or stocks (whenever such a choice dividend is offered). By default, Strateo will opt for choice dividend or DRIP dividend in cash.
Where do I find the tool?
You can find this dividend tool in the section "Your preferences" of your Strateo account. Once in the section "Your preferences", please select "Dividend".
An exception for your choice?
If you wish to receive a choice or DRIP dividend exceptionally in "cash", although your default choice is "stocks", please send us an e-mail to this e-mail address:
operations@strateo.ch
Please don't forget to mention the following information:
- your name
- your trading account number
- the name of the stock
- your choice for the cash dividend for this stock, despite the fact you have chosen "stocks" as a default choice in the preferences of your Strateo account.
It works the other way around as well: did you choose "cash" by default, but do you prefer the dividend in stocks for a specific choice dividend or DRIP dividend, than you can alert us by e-mail.
Please be aware that the election period is often limited in time. Such an election period takes usually a couple of days up to some weeks. Please alert us in time if you want an exception of your default choice for a certain stock.
For stocks not listed in Euronext, but another exchange, the default choice is always cash, or the default choice of the customer if this would be different of the dividend cash distribution. On the website, it is not possible to pick your default choice with regard to stocks that are not listed on Euronext.
Strateo Invest What is a Strateo Invest Plan?
A Strateo Invest Plan is a capital spending program which enables you to invest, without expenses, in a periodic way and with a fixed amount among a portfolio of 15 investments funds carefully selected. In this manner, you will profit from an optimal diversification of your investments starting from 25 CHF per payment!
How to create a Strateo Invest Plan?
If you are not yet a customer at Strateo, you can open your account now and determine yourself the parameters of your Strateo Invest Plan. Select your funds, choose the amount and the periods of payments, and profit from this new periodic and diversified investment. If you are already a customer at Strateo, please go to our secure site and click on Portfolio > Strateo Invest Plan.
Who can open a Strateo Invest Plan?
Any customer can subscribe a Strateo Invest Plan for free at Strateo.
What's the minimum amount to invest?
Your initial investment must be at least 25 CHF. You can then invest from 25 CHF per period (per month, per quarter, per six-month or per year). There is no maximum amount.
Is it possible to take out money of the Strateo Invest Plan at any moment?
A Strateo Invest Plan is an investment plan for the long term. We do not recommend using the Strateo Invest Plan for a short-term period investment.
However, it is completely possible to have your savings at any time by transferring these funds on to your trading account. From your trading account you can easily sell your funds.
If you transfer your funds from your Strateo Invest Plan to your Strateo trading account before the end of the fifth year, you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is 9.95 CHF).
How can you stop your Strateo Invest Plan?
You close your Strateo Invest Plan any time just by sending us a scan, e-mail, or fax. Then we will transfer your funds to your trading account. If you transfer your funds from your Strateo Invest Plan to your Strateo trading account before the end of the fifth year, you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is 9.95 CHF) per transferred line.
Is it possible to suspend the Strateo Invest Plan?
Yes, there is a possibility to suspend your Strateo Invest Plan just by stopping the payments during a certain time. By doing so, your Strateo Invest Plan will be on hold.
Is there a possibility to choose yourself the date of placement?
No, the periodic purchase of the funds is automatically done at the fifth day of each month.
Yes, you can constantly change all the parameters of your Strateo Invest. These modifications will come into effect at the next update. These modifications will affect the composition of your plan.
Attention: a change in the composition of your plan leads to re-balancing of all your positions.
If for example a fund of worth 26% of your FIP portfolio and you modify the FIP composition of this fund to 25% we will sell 1% of this fund on the 15th of the month. But for all other funds as well, we will adapt all your positions in your plan.Is it possible to have a Strateo Invest Plan in another currency?
No, at this moment, Strateo only proposes a Strateo Invest Plan in CHF.
How have the 15 suggested funds been selected?
At the time of the constitution of your Strateo Invest Plan, you have the choice among 15 investment funds carefully chosen by Strateo according to the following criteria: the performance, the risk, the diversification and the quality of the Fund Manager.
What is the advantage of a Strateo Invest Plan compared to a traditional saving plan?
Many studies showed that in the long run, to invest in funds in a regular and periodic way, will generate a higher return than traditional savings. The Strateo Invest Plan is also based on a selection of funds of a good quality coming from several different providers. A Strateo Invest Plan is a unique instrument to save in funds, providing an optimal diversification with very small capital requirements. Each decision concerning the Strateo Invest Plan will be taken by you and will never be considered as a result of an investment advice or recommendation.
Is it possible to open several Strateo Invest Plans?
Yes, you can subscribe to as many Strateo Invest Plans as you wish.
There are no fees or costs, neither entrance fees or fees/expenses related to the periodic payments, nor custodian fees (no custodian fees for private clients, custodian fees for legal entities: consult our fees) , nor expenses if you hold your Strateo Invest during 5 years.
If you stop your Strateo Invest before the end of the fifth year, the funds will be transferred to your trading account and you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is CHF 9.95 per transferred line). So if you have a plan with 10 different funds you have to pay 10 times CHF 9.95.
What will happen with the money on my Strateo Invest account?
If there is money on your Strateo Invest account (after a payment of a dividend), it will automatically be invested during the next update in your Strateo Invest.
At which NAV will I invest in my Strateo Invest Plan?
A Strateo Invest Plan is composed of several individual funds. Each fund has its own rules of subscription. The purchase via a Strateo Invest Plan will be done according to the rules of each fund. This means that several days can pass between the purchase of the first and last fund. If you want to know more about the rules relating to our funds, please consult our FAQs on funds.
How can I deposit money on my Strateo Invest account?
Depositing money on your Strateo Invest Plan is done by wire transfer to the account that you opened when you subscribed to Strateo Invest.You can wire money from your Strateo trading account, or any other bank account in your name. If you transfer money from another bank, we strongly suggest that you put a permanent transfer order to your Strateo Invest account (mentioning all the necessary details as per usual when transferring funds to a Strateo account).Please note that the funds for your periodical investments have to be available on your account at the latest on the Business Day preceding the 5th day of the month, which is the date of the monthly investments for the Strateo Invest plans.
If your account does not have the necessary funds by this date, no investment will be made for said month.
At that time, the buying order for your funds could not be done and your Strateo Invest Plan will be suspended until there is again enough money on your account.
No, there is not a minimum or maximum number of funds in which you need to invest.
When will my Strateo Invest Plan be activated?
Your Strateo Invest Plan is activated during the first five days of the month that follows the month of the creation of your plan. If you started with an initial deposit, this amount will be transferred the beginning of next month to your Strateo Invest account. However, this amount will only be invested in the month following the creation of your Plan. You will then see this amount appearing in the current value of your Strateo Invest Plan.
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Products
Funds At what rate can I buy or sell?
The NAV (Net Asset Value) for most of the funds is calculated on a daily basis (when the market closes). This value is published the following day on the site.
Sales and purchases never take place at this NAV. The actual trade date depends on the policy of the fundcompany.
The table below indicates at which NAV the fund company will normally execute the transaction.
Attention: this table gives only an indication.For eastern markets for example, the NAV you receive will be always one day later.If you want to be certain which NAV you'll receive, we advice you to check the prospectus.
Buy orders Sell orders Comments ABN AMRO t t Aviva t+1 t+1 Axa Rosenberg t t 1+ for Japan Banque de Luxembourg t+1 t+1 BlackRock Merrill Lynch t+1 t+1 BNP Paribas t t 1+ for Japan, Asia, Australia Capital@Work t+1 t+1 Carmignac t t Credit Agricole t t Ethna t+1 t+1 Fidelity t t Financière de l'Echiquier t+1 t+1 Franklin Templeton t t Gartmore t t Henderson t t Invesco t+1 t+1 J.P. Morgan Fleming t t Quest Management t t Robeco t+1 t+1 Sarasin Bank t+1 t+1 Schröders t t SGAM t+1 t+1 Threadneedle t t
Example:
Today, before 11.30 a.m. (date t) you give a buy order for 10 units of a Franklin Templeton fund. The published NAV is CHF 125.11 per unit. This is the NAV of the previous day. Your purchase will be at the rate of today's NAV (date t), which is only fixed when the market closes. In the meantime, this could have moved to CHF 124.97, for example.
Let's now imagine that today, before 11.30 a.m. (date t), you give a buy order for a Invesco fund. This fund will be bought at tomorrows' NAV (date t+1). This NAV will be published the day after tomorrow.
Attention:- occasionally, the actual execution dates can differ from the table above.
- It is possible that your order remains "pending", even if it is already executed on the correct date and at the right price. This is due to the fact that the market of investment funds doesn't work in real time and Strateo therefore has to wait on the definitive confirmation of the execution by the funds managers. And this can take some days.
How much does a transaction cost?
Independently of the size of the order, the transaction costs are CHF 20*.
*Please note that some funds have as entree fee a percentage of your total purchase instead of a fixed fee of CHF 20.- per purchase order.
Concerning stock exchange taxes:
Buying SICAV mutual funds is exempt of stock exchange taxes.
There are no stock exchange taxes on the sale of distribution mutual funds (those that pay a dividend).
However, the sale of capitalised funds (that do not pay dividends) is subject to a sales tax of 1,00%.Do I have to pay custody fees?
As a private investor, you pay custody fees at Strateo. Even for investment funds.
To place a purchase order, you must have enough liquidities on your trading account or own a margin account. Once you have introduced your purchase order, we block the liquidities on your trading account for the estimated value of your order. This is handled at 11.30 a.m. and sent for execution. Depending on the fundcompany, the transaction is carried out at the NAV (Net Asset Value) calculated when the market closes (day t), the day after (day t+1) or even on "day t+2". Please read also FAQ "At what rate can I buy or sell"?Until what time can I cancel an order?
An order can be cancelled up until 11.30 a.m. After this time, it is no longer possible.What is the minimal value of an order?
For purchases, this can vary between CHF 300 and CHF 1,000, depending on the type of fund. This minimum amount is indicated in the fund description.
For sales, there is no minimum amount.
No, the orders cannot be limited. All the transactions (buy and sell) are carried out at that evening's NAV.What difference is there between a unit and a value order?
You give a unit order when you want to buy a certain number of units. As you do not know the exact NAV when you place the order, you do not know the exact value of the transaction.
A value order is one in which you want to buy or sell for a given amount of money. So you know exactly how much will be debited or credited to your account, but you don't know the exact number of units that you're buying or selling. The number of negotiated units is calculated when the NIV is fixed. In general, the number of units exchanged will not be a round number, but a six-decimal figure.
What do the terms level of risk or volatility mean ?
The level of risk or volatility is a measure of by how much the current earnings of the fund differs from its average over a long period of time. The greater the difference, the more the fund can fluctuate and therefore the greater the risk involved.
Strateo uses this "average disparity" to calculate the level of risk.
To simplify things, we could say that in the case of a volatility of 7 and an average return of 8%, the expected return will vary between 1% and 15% (i.e., 8% - 7% = 1% as a minimum and 8% + 7% = 15% as a maximum).
Ultimately, the following empirical rule is applied:
Volatility Level of risk 0 - 6 Low 6 - 15 Below average 15 - 23 Average 23 - 30 Above average >30 High What is the annual management commission ?
This is the commission paid to fund managers. It is deducted directly by the manager on the fund's NAV. So you do not pay it. All the figures governing returns are calculated with the management commission.What is the return of a fund, and how is it calculated?
A fund's return is the increase (or diminution) of a fund's value as a percentage, perhaps corrected by paid dividends.
The return can be calculated over various periods (from 1 day to 7 years). For periods over one year, the return is annualised.
You can find the returns of each fund in it's factsheet.Do you ever give advice about the choice of funds?
No, we do not advise you on the choice of funds. But use the search engine to help you pinpoint the fund that is perhaps best adapted to your situation.My order is still in status pending. Why is that?
It is possible that your order remains "pending", even if it is already executed on the correct date and at the right price. This is due to the fact that the market of investment funds doesn't work in real time and Strateo therefore has to wait on the definitive confirmation of the execution by the funds managers. And this can take some days.The diamond indicates how a fund performed over the past 5 years. The performance is calculated by comparison of the funds with funds of an identical peer group. This calculation is done on the basis of end-of-month data. Only funds that belong to a clearly defined category are taken into account for this type of rating.
Moreover the fund must exist minimum 5 years. This means that not all funds can obtain 1 diamond or more.
The rating is based on 5 criteria, which each have an equal weight:- Consistency : 20%
- Performance: 20%
- Volatility: 20%
- Alpha: 20%
- Capital Preservation: 20%
The weighted average of the five percentages results in the final percentage. This percentage is the basis for the assignment of the crowns.
- 5 diamonds for the 10% best performing funds within the
category
- 4 diamonds for the next 22.55% best performing funds within the category
- 3 diamonds for the next 35% best performing funds within the category
- 2 diamonds for the next 22.55% best performing funds within the category
- 1 diamond for the 10% lowest performing funds within the category
Bonds
Le prix d'une obligation et donc aussi son rendement actuariel est déterminé par différents éléments. Les plus importants sont :- Le taux du marché et le coupon
Si une obligation déterminée offre un coupon qui se situe considérablement au-dessus des taux du marché, cette obligation va être cotée à un prix élevé. Car, qui ne serait pas intéressé à investir dans une obligation qui rapporte du 10%, alors que le taux du marché n'est que du 3% ?
L'obligation deviendra donc plus chère (le prix va être à la hausse, et le rendement actuariel à la baisse) selon que le taux du marché baisse. Le cours de l'obligation va aussi baisser (le rendement actuariel va grimper) si le taux du marché part à la hausse. - La durée de vie restante de l'obligation
A l'inverse du cours des actions, le cours d'une obligation ne va pas grimper sans limite. Ceci s'explique par le fait que chaque obligation a une date d'échéance, à laquelle l'obligation sera remboursée à sa valeur nominale (souvent 100%).
Au plus on se rapproche de la date d'échéance (où l'obligation est remboursée à 100%), au plus le potentiel de baisse et de hausse est limité.
Une obligation à court terme va donc toujours moins fluctuer qu'une obligation à long terme. - La qualité de l'émetteur
Si vous avez le choix d'investir dans deux obligations identiques, une qui est émise par une entreprise multinationale très solvable et une autre par une entreprise qui connaît des difficultés financières, vous allez choisir l'émetteur le plus solvable. Cette obligation sera donc plus chère que la même obligation émise par une entreprise affaiblie. Autrement dit, le rendement actuariel de l'émetteur affaibli sera plus élevé que celui de l'émetteur le plus fort. Le surplus de rendement que vous pouvez recevoir en investissant dans une obligation moins solvable, vous pouvez la considérer comme une "prime de risque".
Si vous avez une obligation dans votre portefeuille dont le rating (qui est une bonne mesure de la solvabilité de l'émetteur) s'améliore soudainement (par ex. Standard & Poors élève le rating de A à AA ), ceci entraîne une hausse du prix de l'obligation et donc en même temps une baisse du rendement actuariel.
Quelle est la différence entre le rendement (actuariel) et le coupon ?
The coupon of an obligation is determined by the issuer and remains in theory valid throughout all the obligation lifespan. Even for obligations with a floating coupon, the terms of the coupon are laid down. On the other hand, the actuarial return does not remain constant. According to whether the price of the obligation goes up or drops, the actuarial return will drop or go up. The price of an obligation always follows the opposite evolution of the actuarial return of an obligation.Example :
An obligation has the following characteristics:
If the price of this obligation amounts to 100%, the actuarial return also amounts to 4.50%.Lifespan : 7 ans Coupon : 4.50%
Let us suppose that the price of this obligation climbs up to 101.25%, the actuarial return then will drop down to 4.29%. An investor who buys this obligation at 101.25% will still receive a coupon of 4.50%, but since he bought the obligation more expensive (101.25%) than the price to which he will be refunded in 7 years (100.00%), its actuarial return will be only 4.29%.Que sont les intérêts échus et qui doit les payer à qui ?
A l'exception de l'obligation à zéro coupon, toutes les obligations paient à l'investisseur un coupon périodique (souvent annuel). Ce paiement d'intérêts, dans le cas d'un coupon annuel, n'intervient qu'une seule fois (un seul jour) sur l'année, le jour de la date du coupon. Si vous détenez une obligation que vous souhaitez vendre un jour avant qu'elle ne paie son coupon, vous recevrez un pro-rata du coupon. Vous allez alors être payé 364/365 du coupon. C'est ce qu'on appelle les intérêts échus. L'acheteur de l'obligation devra payer ces intérêts échus. A la date du coupon, l'acheteur recevra alors l'entièreté du coupon.Autrement dit: le vendeur reçoit un pro-rata du coupon pour la période qui court depuis la date de paiement du dernier coupon jusqu'à la date du jour où il a vendu son obligation.
C'est toujours l'acheteur de l'obligation qui doit payer ce montant à titre d'intérêts échus au vendeur de l'obligation.
Ici réside une différence essentielle avec le paiement de dividendes d'une action: l'investisseur qui un jour avant le paiement du dividende vend son action, ne touchera aucun dividende. L'acheteur d'une action ne devra jamais rembourser le vendeur un pro-rata du dividende auquel le vendeur pensait avoir droit.
En tant qu'investisseur en obligations, il ne vous est pas non-plus nécessaire d'attendre la date du coupon avant de vendre votre obligation. Vous êtes toujours payés pour les intérêts échus auxquels vous avez droit.How much is the Swiss withholding tax on Eurobonds coupons?
- If you are resident in Switzerland : 0% withholding unless a tax is deducted by the country of your residence.
- If you are resident within the EU (25 countries) : 35% unless you sign the document "Authorisation for EU regulation on savings income taxation".
- If you are resident outside the EU: 0% withholding unless a tax is deducted by the country of your residence.
Puis-je introduire des ordres limites ?
Il est possible d'introduire des ordres limites pour les obligations qui peuvent être négociées en ligne.
Pour les obligations qui ne peuvent être négociées qu'offline, il n'est pas possible d'introduire des ordres limites. Seuls les ordres au prix du marché sont acceptés.
Actuellement, il y a environ 250 obligations que nous cotons en temps réel et qui sont négociables online. Cette offre va être systématiquement complétée.
Il s?agit d?une condition qui nous est imposée par Moody?s. Cependant vous pouvez toujours faire des recherches sur d?autres critères (type de coupon, maturité, etc) sans signer le contrat.
Attention : Les ratings attribués par Moody?s ne donnent aucune garantie de rendement quelconque.Equities On which markets may I invest?
You have direct access to the most important stock exchanges in Europe such as the Swiss stock market ( SWX ) , Xetra Frankfurt, Euronext Paris, Euronext Brussels , Euronext Amsterdam, London Stock Exchange, the Milan stock exchange, the Madrid stock exchange and also the Nordic stock exchanges with Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen.
In addition, you also have access to the American market (NYSE, AMEX, Nasdaq and OTC-BB) and to the Canadian market (TSX & TSX Venture).
For the American stock exchanges, you also have access to ?Extended Hours Trading?, which gives you the possibility to trade not only before, but also after opening hours of the stock exchange.
Besides the traditional stock exchanges, you also have access to trading in options, which is possible on both the European option stock exchange (LIFFE) and the American option stock exchange (CBOE).
Trading in stocks and bonds is also at your fingertips.
You may find more explanation about the different stock exchanges by clicking on market regulations.
Options Strateo Pro You can find all the useful information on our website Strateo Pro
The "margin" is the amount you have to deposit on your Strateo Pro account before starting to trade. This amount is used to cover potential losses. Your margin has to be cash (in CHF) on your Strateo Pro account.
Depending on the deposited margin (minimum CHF 2,500), you will be authorised to take some positions. The largest is your margin, the largest your positions can be.Can I deposit stocks as a margin?
No, that is not possible.
Is it possible to open a Strateo Pro account in another currency than CHF?
Yes this is possible. You can choose from three different currencies - CHF, EUR and USD. Having a Strateo Pro account in one currency is actually not a problem to take positions in another currency. The Strateo Pro account is only a margin account, therefore you do not have to support any exchange operations to take position on a Dow Jones Future, for example. Only the profits (or the losses) will be expressed in USD and automatically converted in CHF, but not the nominal amount (much larger). Considering this, the exchange costs remain very small.
I have downloaded and installed the live platform. How can I start to trade?
You have to transfer your margin amount on your Strateo Pro account. You have to transfer a minimum amount of CHF 2,500.Why is the demo version limited to 20 days?
Strateo Pro is a very powerful platform. The demo version of Strateo Pro is the exact copy of the live version; this version is therefore very heavy for our servers. Furthermore, people who are not clients of Strateo can download the demo platform. We think that 20 days is sufficient enough for the interested investors to know the platform. Opening a demo version of the platform for a too long period could be harmful for the live version.
This operation has to be made on the Strateo platform and not on the Strateo Pro platform.
Go to: Bank>Transfer>Internal transfer.These transfers are not possible when the Bank is closed. And this can take 15 minutes before the money is transferred on your account.
The principle of a "margin account" at Strateo Pro is completely different from the principle of a "trading account" at Strateo:
- A "margin account" is used as a guaranty for all the positions taken on the Strateo Pro platform.
- On the other hand, a "trading account" is used to buy and sell securities.
Where can I see a detailed overview of all the positions I have taken on Strateo Pro?
This overview is only available on the Strateo Pro platform and not in the historic of Strateo.
In order to have a global overview of your financial statements at Strateo, you can find the balance of your Strateo Pro "margin account" on the secure website of Strateo.
However, all the up-to-date information (in real time) about Strateo Pro (linked to your positions, your orders or your cash) is precisely explained on the Strateo Pro platform.
Attention: These are liquidities you have on your "margin account" at the beginning of the day at the mentioned date or in other words available liquidities the previous evening of the mentioned date.Do I receive interests on my Strateo Pro account?
Yes, the interest rate changes regularly. If you wish to know the current interest rate, please contact our helpdesk.
These are paid quarterly on your "trading account" of Strateo. The taxation of savings is applied.How can I receive my passwords to log on Strateo Pro?
You will receive, by mail, a login and a password from our services. With these data, you will be able to log on for the first time. Afterwards, you have to activate your Key. In order to do it, you have to contact our services by phone: 0800 15 30 30. When your Key is activated, you can change your password.
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Tools & services
Market monitor Our Market Watch is a streaming tool that provides you with live updates for stocks on 18 markets. You can view all the main shares at a glance and their information refreshes automatically.
Use the buttons for rapid buying and selling and follow your own favorite shares in a separate watch list. You can activate real time quotes for each market. This option is free for the Swiss market and free from 3 trades per month on the relevant market.
Global Analyzer
The Global Analyzer is a powerful tool of analysis which characterizes a certain share according to five key aspects: Valuation, Outlook, Timing, Quality and Risk.
For each of these five aspects an in-depth analysis is realized which always leads to a clear conclusion going of inferior until excellent.
To finish, the conclusions of each of the aspects are combined in a single global analysis. It can be: sell, sell gradually, keep, accumulate or buy.
On what does the Global Analyzer base itself to form an analysis?
Global Analyzer is the fruit of years of research.
Global Analyzer is fed by thousands up-to-ate data on ten thousands shares.
Those data are collected from the biggest suppliers of data such as Factset, Interactive Dated and Reuters. These data are processed daily in several analysis modules which base themselves on the most important economic literature in each of 5 key aspects (Valuation, Outlook, Timing, Quality, Risk).How much costs the use of the Global Analyzer?
There are two versions of Global Analyzer:
- A free version (BASIC): only the synthesis of the results of the analysis is available. These results are identical to those of the version PREMIUM.
- A paying version (PREMIUM): it is a complete analysis of the share including a descriptive text, graphs and a conclusion
The BASIC is completely free and all the clients of Strateo can consult it unlimitedly. For all the shares you have in your portfolio, you will have free access to the PREMIUM analyses. This will allow you, without any charges, to manage in an optimal way the shares you possess.
The PREMIUM costs CHF 25 per month for an unlimited number of analyses. On the other hand, this version is free if the client has at least 3 executed stock exchange transactions in the month. For that month, the monthly cost will not be charged.
For all the shares of your portfolio, you receive an unlimited number of analyses PREMIUM. It will allow you, without any charges, to manage in an optimal way the shares that you possess.
The PREMIUM Global Analyzer is a complete report of analysis which is comparable to a research note established by a broker or by a financial analyst. It contains a detailed and clear analysis, illustrated with graphs, tables and a conclusion.
A PREMIUM report contains on average of 3 to 4 pages.
The BASIC Global Analyzer is a mini-report where you only have the conclusion of the PREMIUM report.How can I have access to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer ?
Each Strateo client has an automatic and free access to the Global Analyzer BASIC. In addition, each client has free access to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer for shares he holds in his Strateo portfolio. This access is also automatic.
For an unlimited access to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer, you have to indicate it in "Your preferences", in the section "Site Preferences".
How may I stop my subscription to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer?
In case you would like to stop your PREMIUM subscription, go to Your preferences > Site Preferences > Global Analyzer on the secure website of Strateo. There, you need to click on Cancel. Your subscription will be cancelled as from the month following your demand.How does the invoicing of the PREMIUM version works?
For the unlimited use of the PREMIUM Global Analyzer, the monthly cost is CHF 25 . This cost has to be paid at the end of every calendar month. It means that if for example you activate the PREMIUM Global Analyzer on April 20th, you will be able to use the PREMIUM service only 10 days and will also have to pay CHF 25 for these ten days.
Every month started counts for a whole month. When you stop your subscription, it will be cancelled as from the month following your demand.
The monthly CHF 25 fee will be credited on your trading account.
The monthly CHF 25 fee will not be charged, if you have at least three executed stock exchange transactions in that month.
No, the Global Analyzer limits itself only to the analysis of shares.What is the difference between the Global Analyzer and the Idea Center?
The Idea Center is a tool for the trader who wants to make a quick list of all the potentially interesting shares. Such a list is obtained by the implementation of fast selection according to several criteria.
It is absolutely necessary that the investor analyses the shares on the list thoroughly before taking an investment decision. This analysis can, among others, be made by the Global Analyzer.Is the Global Analyzer a completely automatic tool?
Yes.
In this way, each subjective element is excluded from the analysis and the Global Analyzer can concentrate itself only on objective and reliable data.Does Strateo have its own positions in the shares recommended by the Global Analyzer?
No, Strateo does not have its own "trading book " and thus, does not hold any position.
In this way, we can guarantee an optimal objectivity of the Global Analyzer.Are the analyses of the Global Analyzer reliable?
The Global Analyzer uses up-to-date information from reliable data suppliers, such as Factset, Reuters and Interactive Dated. The analysis models which are used by the Global Analyzer are based on the most relevant literature published in the last 50 years.
Therefore, we can say that Global Analyzer is a reliable and scientifically supported investment tool.
It is however incorrect to state that all the recommendations of the Global Analyzer lead inevitably to successful investments. The Global Analyzer is certainly no crystal ball which can predict the evolution of the price of a share!
Therefore, we can say that Global Analyzer is investment tool.
On the other hand, it would be false to say that all the recommendations of the Global Analyzer lead inevitably to success for an investment.
The Global Analyzer is not certainly a crystal ball capable of predicting the evolution of the price of a share!Does the Global Analyzer take my investor's profile into account?
No. The recommendations of the Global Analyzer are totally independent from your investor's profile.
Does the Global Analyzer take my trading portfolio in account?
No. The recommendations of the Global Analyzer are totally independent from your trading portfolio.
How frequently are the analyses of the Global Analyzer updated?
The update happens daily for all the shares.
This way, you can consult every day the up-to-date analyses of the shares which interest you.Idea centre What can you find in the Idea centre?
The 'Idea Centre' is a practical tool which allows you to compare stocks at a glance. In this way, you can make a first selection out of thousands of stocks.
On one hand, you can do this via predefined investment themes in the first tab of the 'Idea Centre'. An investment theme is a list with fixed selection criteria regarding one specific theme allowing you to find stocks based on these criteria. Different investment themes are set up, all viewed from a different investment angle, and all resulting in a shortlist of the most interesting stocks for each theme. In these investment themes, you'll find among others 'Conservative European Large Caps', 'Stable Income Shares' and 'Rising Expectation Shares'.On the other hand, you can search stocks based on your preferred criteria in the second tab of the 'Idea Centre', namely 'Advanced Options'. You can select different criteria and verify which stocks meet your criteria.
WARNING: The Idea Centre is a tool helping you with your online investments, but it cannot be considered as investment advice.
'Advanced Options' does not give any result. Why?
Some of the criteria's you chose for your selection are probably too restricted. Check the selection criteria you gave in and adapt if you want
Some investment themes do not give any result. Why?
The selection criteria's used for the investment themes are very restrictive. Under certain market conditions, it is possible that no shares satisfy these severe criteria's and that some investment themes do not give any result.
The investment themes results are daily updated. So, if you do not want to miss any of the information one of you favourite investment themes could give you, we advice you to check it on a daily basis.Yesterday, I saw a share noted in one of the investment theme lists and today it has disappeared.
Every day we get thousands of data's on all shares (company results, new perspectives, analyst's recommendations) and we carry out new analysis (technical analysis and fundamental analysis). These new figures can lead to new ideas or can lead to the withdrawal of certain shares of a list of an investment theme.
For this reason, each list can change every day. If you do not want to lose any information an investment theme can offer, we advise you to consult it on a daily basis.The lists proposed via our Investment themes do not guarantee a positive evolution of the share's quotes. These lists are not investment advices, but are meant to give you investment ideas which are the result of very strict selection based on severe and objective criteria's.
The world of investments is not an exact science. What today can be seen as an opportunity can radically change the day after! -
Other
Equiduct What is Equiduct and how does it work?
Equiduct, a regulated European market, is an alternative trading platform with Börse Berlin AG as a supervising authority. It analyses and compares the prices on different platforms (Chi-X, Turquoise, BATS) and Euronext. Equiduct then executes at the best price.What are the advantages for me as a customer?
You are sure to get the "Best Execution" on the market. According to the "Best Execution" principle, Strateo is taking into account a variety of factors of which price and total cost are the most important ones.
Click here to take note of the order execution policy of Strateo and click here to take note of the Equiduct transaction rules.Which orders are sent to Equiduct?
Currently only specific stocks and trackers on Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris will be negotiated on Equiduct. The other financial instruments (warrants, turbo's, speeders) are not tradable on Equiduct. In the future other shares might be added. As soon as a stock is negotiable on Equiduct, the buying or selling will be automatically sent to Equiduct, except if you decided to sent your stock orders to Euronext.What do I have to do to be eligible for this new service?
You don't have to take any action. The stock orders on certain stocks and trackers on Brussels, Amsterdam or Paris will be automatically sent to Equiduct. You are sure to get the "Best Execution". There is no change to the transaction fees or any other tariffs.How can I still continue to send my orders to Euronext ?
When you don't want the "Best Execution" service, you may choose via "Your Preferences" on the secured website to send ALL your orders to Euronext. In this case you also have to take note of the fact that your orders will be considered as a specific instruction as described in article 5 of the order execution policy of Strateo. Afterwards you may choose to send your orders again on Equiduct via "Your Preferences" on the secured website with as a consequence that a stock bought on Euronext can be sold on Equiduct and vice versa.Will I still be able to see my orders in the order book?
When your order is sent to Equiduct, the order will not be visible in the Euronext order book. Only the market depth of Euronext will be shown, in other words only the orders sent to Euronext will be shown.Where can I find more info on Equiduct ?
You can find more info on http://www.equiduct.com/en/Collar Logic Why Euronext uses a Collar Logic?
The Collar is designed to protect the investor and aims at avoiding order executions to far from the last traded price.
With Collar Logic, NYSE Euronext defines two thresholds (= the collar) between which trades can take place. The level of the thresholds adapts automatically to the last price traded. You can find information on the collar on the page with detailed price information, under "price margin".What will happen if you place an order outside of the Collar?
Strateo has chosen to execute automatically all orders outside the Collar after showing a warning message. When you enter an order with a limit that is outside the Collar, you will receive a warning that tells you your limit is outside the Collar. Nevertheless you can confirm your order (by introducing your confirmation code) and a confirmation message will then automatically be sent to Euronext and your order will be executed outside of the Collar. When you introduce a market order, you will receive no warning and your order can be executed outside of the Collar. Orders that are in the order book for a period longer than 30 seconds and that are matched outside of the Collar will be rejected by Euronext. This can only happen due to a sudden price movement, where the match price is outside of the Collar. When an order is partially executed, the remaining part will be cancelled in case of a next match outside of the Collar.Do you have a complaint? Strateo is dedicated to an excellent customer service. An independent survey by Link AG (March 2013) confirmed the excellent level of our customer satisfaction.
If nevertheless you have a complaint about our services, please contact our customer care on 0800 15 30 30, or by e-mail info@strateo.ch. They will do all the necessary to help you.
If you are still not satisfied after having sent your complaint to our customer care please contact the Strateo legal department at the following e-mail address: legal@strateo.ch.
Attention: in accordance with our General Terms and Conditions, your complaint must be notified to Strateo within five days of the day during which you become aware of the problem or are deemed to have become aware of the reason of your dissatisfaction.Corporate actions I have a question concerning Corporate Actions
Strateo established a document in order to guide its customers through various questions regarding Corporate Actions.
Companies take strategic decisions in regard to their capital structure (capital increase, a capital reduction, a split, a spin off, mergers and acquisitions, an IPO, etc.). This document will help you understand these transactions.
Important information
Dear client,
In
our ongoing effort to provide you with the best of online trading, we
would like to inform you of the evolution of our rates from July 1st
2018.
Please take a look at our new pricing structure here : https://www.strateo.ch/en/our-fees/
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your trust and remain at your disposal for any further information.
Best Regards,
The Strateo team
Since the 1st of January 2017, banks in Switzerland have been collecting the necessary information for the AEOI.
For more information about the AEOI, please refer to the section "Fiscal questions" below.
How to contact us?
Every workday by telephone or fax from 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the following numbers:
- Tel.: +41 800 15 30 30
- Fax: +41 (0)22 715 20 21
Via the following e-mail address: info@strateo.ch
You may also pop into our office every workday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
You can contact us by skype (strateo.ch)
Directions to our office are here.
First steps
Our trading accounts are automatically multi-currency. That means that you can have at the same time cash balances in different currencies on your trading account.
On your trading account you have cash in CHF, EUR, GBP, CAD, DKK. You can send funds in these currencies to your trading account at Strateo without having to change them. The account numbers to be used to fund your trading account at Strateo can be found in our document centre ("How to fund your account").
Active traders can also apply for a "Strateo pro" trading account. This is an account for CFD, forex and futures trading.
There is no minimum deposit required to open an account (from July 1st 2018).
You may become the proxy of the accounts if the account holder or co-signatory of the accounts has filled in and signed the document power of attorney and handed it in to us along with a copy of your identity card.
If your personal situation changes (e.g. new address) you need to inform us as soon as possible using the relevant document, which you can find in the Document Centre.
100% online account opening
Step 1: Start the registration process
Using our application form, fill in your personal details and tax information, then click on the "Video identification" button. If you do not wish to continue with the video call, you can fill out the application form and send it to us by post.
Step 2: Online identification
A Swisscom agent will contact you (via webcam), and will verify your identity online (using your passport or identity card).
A transaction number (TAN) will be sent to you by sms. You will then need to confirm the identification.
Make sure you have a valid identity document at hand.
Step 3: Online signature
Your contract with Strateo will be displayed. You can sign it using your electronic signature.
Step 4: End of the registration process
If you wish, you can download your account opening application form. Once your account application has been approved by Strateo, your personal access information will be sent to you by post.
- - It's practical: you can open an account from wherever you are, and no longer need to leave the house to have your identity documents certified.
- - It's efficient: you can open an account in less than 10 minutes (you can start trading just 48 hours after your application has been approved).
- - Identification is available in English, French and German
- - Service available from Monday to Saturday, 08:00 to 22:00
Need more information? Don't hesitate to get in contact with us at +41 (0)800 15 30 30
No. Video identification is available to residents of over 20 different countries, and postal identification is available to residents of over 80 countries.
If you do not have access to video identification after having completed the online application form, you will still be able to register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to: Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland.
No.
If you do not have access to video identification, you will still be able to register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland.
- - You must be over 18 years of age
- - Your identity document (valid identity card or passport) must be issued from one of our authorised countries
From a technical point of view, you will require 3 elements:
- - A stable internet connection
- - A computer, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone with a microphone and webcam (or camera)
- - A mobile phone (for receiving your TAN code by text message)
Can't meet these requirements? No problem: you can still register by post. Complete the online application form, then click "Print form", and send your application to Strateo, Rue de Chantepoulet 25, 1201 Genève, Switzerland.
We accept valid passports and identity cards (country dependant) for the online identification process.
If a technical error causes video identification to be interrupted, you will be sent an email containing a link: you will then need to reconnect quickly to restart the video identification.
Once your video identification has been successfully completed, your application will be processed by Strateo.
Once your application has been approved, you will receive your personal access information by post, and you will be ready to trade.
Wishing you an excellent trading experience with Strateo!
Payment transactions
Your account at Strateo is a trading account and not a traditional current account. The easiest way to transfer money to your account is by way of a bank transfer. Please indicate Strateo as beneficiary and add your name plus your trading account number in the comment field. Please check the document "How to fund my account" for the detail of the different IBAN accounts to be used according to the currency of your transfer. Alternatively you can use the BVR (Red Impayment slip) which you have received if you are a Swiss resident. Please indicate your name and trading account number in the field for comments/reasons of the transfer.
On the secure website, you can instruct an outgoing transfer in favour of the reference account that you have indicated in your account application form. For outgoing transfers to other accounts, please provide us with your detailed signed instructions by fax, email with scan or by post. A cash withdrawal in CHF or EUR is possible at our offices (2 days prior notice is required). The bank charges CHF 2 for a payment to an account in Switzerland and CHF 15 to an account abroad.
Security
- At the computer level:
An Internet bank such as Strateo is duty bound to have back-up IT systems in order to avoid any interruptions of services arising from technical problems. With this in mind, the company has four E3 Internet lines at 34 Mbps each, with two separate ISPs, each of whom use a different telecommunications supplier. These Internet lines are connected to routers, which are also backed-up. Several levels of firewalls, all of them with a back-up, guarantee the security of the Strateo networks. The Internet application servers, also known as web servers, have not one but six back-ups. The database servers that they are connected to are distributed in duplicated clusters, which means that if any problems arise in one or more database servers, customers will remain unaffected and the ease of use of the Strateo services will remain the same. This is also the case for back-office management servers, bank accounting servers and National Bank report servers.
A secure channel between your browser and our server gives you access to our network. All confidential information is encoded and, subsequently, cannot be read by third parties. Strateo uses a 128-bit encryption key to send data between the browser of the client and its web servers. Data encrypted using a 128-bit key is 309,485,009,821,345,068,724,781,056 times more difficult to crack than, for example, a 40-bit key.
Your Strateo account is blocked as soon as the wrong confirmation code is entered at the third attempt.
In addition, intrusion detection systems and encryption systems meet the highest standards on the market, thereby guaranteeing optimum confidentiality for our clients, and total security against hackers. All data and documents are backed up on magnetic tapes and also saved onto CD/DVD to guarantee their enduring safety. These are stored in secure areas outside Strateo.
Finally, Strateo has its Internet systems audited once a year over a twelve-hour period by Netcraft Security, one of the world leaders in Internet security. Strateo is the only Swiss bank to offer clients such a guarantee of Internet security.
- At the administrative level:
Your personal information (surname, first name, ...) is not to be found on any single computer of Strateo, which is accessible via the Internet. Only your logon or account number identifies you at Strateo.
Your passwords are mailed to you after you have opened an account. These are never communicated via the telephone.
- Guarantee:
In addition, you are also protected under the deposit guarantee system for up to 100,000 EUR as prescribed by Swiss legislation and applicable to every bank falling under Swiss law.
Passwords are used to protect your accounts and possessions. Therefore, choose a combination of letters and numbers.
The seven golden rules for a good password are given here below:
- A password is a minimum of 4 and a maximum 255 characters long.
- The password must contain a mixture of letters and numbers or other characters (min. 1 of each).
- Your access password and confirmation code should be different.
- The same character may not be used 3 consecutive times.
- The password must not have a logical sequence of more than 6 characters. E.g. sequential keys on the keyboard (azertyuiop) or sequential numbers (2345678).
- Your password is personal and must not be given to anyone or written down anywhere.
- Never use a simple combination (birth date, wedding anniversary,...)
You may change your password as often as you wish. This is also recommended to ensure your optimal security.
You may change your password in the main menu on our secure web site by clicking on "Your Preferences".
You then have the option of changing your access password, confirmation code and the telephone password.
Some tips for your own protection on internet
- Never give your passwords and codes to third parties, not even your close relatives whom you trust. When you open an account with several account holders and/or authorised representatives, Strateo sends each person their personal passwords and codes.
- Change your passwords regularly and follow our 'Seven golden rules for a safe password'. To read them, visit www.strateo.ch and click on 'Your preferences'. Then click on 'Passwords and security' and 'Confirmation code' in the section 'Passwords & security'.
- Always log out with the 'Log out' when you leave your computer or when you surf to other sites, instead of just closing your browser.
Your computer (PC or Mac)
- Avoid using public computers (e.g. those in a cybercafé).
- Use modern anti-virus software, which is regularly updated. Make sure that your anti-virus software automatically and on a daily basis checks to see if there are any updates available.
- Use a firewall to keep unauthorised persons from gaining access to your computer through the Internet.
- Keep the software on your computer up-dated (Windows Update for PC / Software Update for Mac). Check weekly to see if updates are available, as these can increase the security of your computer.
Contact your computer specialist for a detailed explanation, and installation if necessary, of the appropriate software.
Should you nevertheless have a virus on your computer, be sure to remove it and then change your passwords immediately. You can also always request new passwords from Strateo. We will then temporarily block the Internet access to your account.
Emails
- Do not open email attachments unless you were expecting them.
- Email attachments with jokes can also contain viruses or other unwanted software, even if you know the sender. Make sure that your anti-virus software also scans email attachments. Activate if necessary the anti-virus mail filter of your Internet provider.
- Strateo will never ask for bank account numbers, passwords or codes by email.
- E-mail program software update
E-mail programs can also have security holes. Check regularly for software updates for your e-mail program and install them. - Personal information. Avoid storing personal information (copies ID card, tax statements, communication with the bank,..) in your in-box.
When you call our Helpdesk with a specific question concerning the execution of your orders, they will ask for your account number. For orders by telephone, they will ask for your PIN code on your Strateo ID.
If you notice any anomalies in emails or on our site, please contact our Helpdesk immediately by email at info@strateo.ch or call +41 (22) 715 20 20.
Technical questions
Strateo only supports recent browsers enabling JavaScript and operation systems actively managed by software suppliers. We cannot guarantee a correct functioning, nor an optimal security when you use outdated or not maintained software versions.
If you use e.g. Internet Explorer 8 or an older version, it's possible that you will have some problems. In that case, we advise you to install a more recent browser on your computer.
One of the main advantages of Strateo is that you do not need to install any specific software on your computer or laptop. You can therefore manage your accounts and enter orders using your passwords no matter where you are in the world.
If you cannot go through the questions, it is because you do not have Quick Time Player.
Click on the following link to download the program for free : http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/
The documents you'll find on our site are all in PDF-format.
If you wish to open them you need a program that can read PDF-format, for example Adobe Acrobat Reader.
If you cannot open the documents, you probably do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader or do not have the correct version of this program.
Click here to download this program for free.
Fiscal questions
Federal stamp duty:
Swiss securities over all markets combined: 0.075% (purchase and sale)
Foreign securities over all markets combined: 0.15% (purchase and sale)
This is an indication only. There are
many special rules and exceptions: subscription to and redemption of units of
Swiss investment funds, for example, are not subject to stamp duty.
Options are also exempt from stamp duty.
Stock
Exchange Tax: London: 0.5% (purchase only)
Please note the fiscal information provided is not exhaustive and may be
subject to change.
Switzerland introduced the International Standard for the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to combat tax evasion. This international standard allows the tax authorities of the states who adhered to it to obtain data and financial information on the accounts held by their taxpayers abroad.
Thus, from the 1st of January 2017, banks in Switzerland collect the necessary information for the AEOI.
Are you concerned?
The automatic exchange of information concerns all natural and legal persons whose domicile for tax purposes are in a partner State with which Switzerland has signed an automatic exchange of information agreement:
https://www.sif.admin.ch/sif/en/home/multilateral/steuer_informationsaust/automatischer-informationsaustausch/automatischer-informationsaustausch1.html
Swiss resident customers are not affected.
What information does STRATEO send to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (AFC - Administration fédérale des contributions)?
· Name
· Address
· Birth date
· Tax Identification Number
· Account number
· Total gross income from dividends, interest and other income
· Gross amounts on disposal of financial assets
· Total balance at the end of the calendar year concerned
How does it work?
A customer's information is transmitted by the customer's financial institution to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (AFC), which then transmits the client's information to the tax authority of the customer's country of residence for tax purposes. This exchange of information takes place on an annual basis.
What does this mean to you?
If you are a non-Swiss tax resident and you are a client and/or a beneficial owner of a legal entity, STRATEO must send to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration your name, address, date of birth, account number(s) and Tax identification number, as well as the balance of your accounts as of December 31 (even if the account was closed the previous year) and certain financial flows (interest, dividends, gross sales of financial assets).
Warning!
If you have been registered in our database as a tax resident of a country, but you have become a Swiss resident or a tax resident of another country, please make sure that STRATEO has the correct information and the complete documentation (proof) of this change of address.
In accordance with its agreement with the European Union, cross-border
interest payments to individuals resident in an EU member state will be taxed
under the European Savings Directive. The client has the choice between a
voluntary disclosure of his direct or indirect interest income to the relevant
fiscal authorities or a deduction of a withholding (of currently 35%). Legal
entities, dividend payments or capital gains are in principle not in scope of
this directive.
However income on the sale of the redemption of reinvestment funds with an
underlying composition of at least 40% bonds or other forms of debt which are
normally subject to EU withholding tax are subject to the European Savings
Directive.
Payouts from investment funds (distribution funds) with a underlying
composition of at least 15% in debt securities which are normally subject to EU
withholding tax are also subject to the European Savings Directive.
Interest paid by Swiss entities is not subject to the European Savings
Directive but is however subject to Swiss withholding tax (35%).
Interest paid by Swiss legal entities and Swiss banks is subject to a
withholding tax of 35%.
This withholding tax applies to interests, dividends and equivalent payments
from a Swiss legal entity and to funds issued by a Swiss entity.
Swiss residents and being the beneficial owner can reclaim the
withholding tax from the relevant tax authorities upon request.
Nonresidents need to refer to the relevant double taxation treaties between their country of fiscal residence and Switzerland.
Please note the fiscal information provided is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.
Special Offer
Strateo clients can sponsor their friends in order for them to become new Strateo clients, using a personal promo code.
If certain conditions of validity are met, Strateo will credit the godfather and the godson (both) CHF 100 each.
Everything is explained in the email that you will receive.
If you choose to copy the code manually for sending, they have to insert this code in the account opening process, in the field "promo code".
If you send them the customized link to the account opening process, they only have to fill in their personal data, your code will already be inserted automatically.
Strateo will credit you up to CHF 1'000 if your friends use your promo code when opening an account.
For example, if 10 of your friends become new Strateo clients and use your promo code, we will credit 10 x 100CHF = 1'000 CHF.
And each of your friends will be credited 100 CHF.
If more than 10 persons use your code, they will all be credited 100 CHF each, but the amount you will be credited will be capped at 1'000 CHF.
You and your friends will both be credited CHF 100 during the month following the account opening, if the following conditions are met:
- At least CHF 1'000 have been wired to the account; and
- A first trade has been made
Replacement of the Strateo ID
- The SoftKey: You use an app on your smartphone or tablet to log in to the website and confirm payments by scanning secured QR codes displayed on your screen.
- The HardKey: You receive a new device to log in and identify yourself. The HardKey is a brand new, Digipass-type device, which conforms to all current safety regulations. In both cases, you will no longer need to manage passwords or codes, but just your own PIN.
If you still have not received anything after this period has elapsed, please contact our customer service on +41 800 15 20 20 on any working day between 8:30am and 6pm.
SoftKey
IMPORTANT: To make sure you can access your accounts continuously, we advise you to activate the SoftKey on several devices. You can always de-activate it from the menu 'Your Preferences' on our secured website. If you have activated the SoftKey on only one device smartphone or device and one is stolen, lost or does not work anymore, please immediately contact our Customer Service so we can de-activate your SoftKey and help you activate a new one. Please call our Customer Serivce on +41 (0)800 15 20 20, available on business days from 8:30am to 6pm. You can also send us an e-mail at: info@strateo.ch. You will be asked some details including your username to identify yourself.
HardKey
If you have not received the PIN or do not remember it, you must reset your HardKey.
Here's how:
A. Lock your HardKey
To be able to reset your HardKey and create a new PIN, you must first lock it. How do I lock my HardKey?
- Turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and choose option 1 "Login".
- Enter an incorrect PIN.
Your HardKey tells you that there is a "PIN error". Press OK.
It will then show how may incorrect attempts have been made with "Wrong PIN: 1". Press OK. - Re-enter an incorrect PIN and repeat step 2 until the message "Time lock" appears. "Time lock" is a 5-minute period during which you cannot use your HardKey.
- After 5 minutes, turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and enter an incorrect PIN again.
- Your HardKey displays "Incorrect PIN: 4". Press "OK" and wait another 5 minutes for "Time lock"
- After these 5 minutes, turn on your HardKey via the "OK" button and enter an incorrect PIN one last time.
B. Unlock code
To obtain your unlock code, please have your HardKey to hand and contact us on +41 (0)800 15 20 20 on a working day between 8.30 am and 6 pm.After confirming your identity, Customer Service will ask you for the lock code and will tell you the unlock code to be entered into the HardKey.
You will then be able to create your new PIN for your HardKey. This is a 4-digit code.
My account overview
Once you have logged into our website, under the tab Trading > Portfolio you will see a bar near the top saying 'Switch to the new version'. If you click on that you will automatically be shown the new portfolio display. You can use the same route to switch back to the details of the old portfolio.
In the portfolio view you can see all the trading accounts where you are the account holder or you have the right of signature. If you are not the account holder, this is shown by means of a label 'Not holder'.
Note: If you are the operator of an account, then you can carry out all types of transaction for this account. If you do not have the right of signature (e.g. in an investment club) then you can only query the account. In that case you cannot carry out any transactions, and the buy and sell buttons will not be active.
If you click in your portfolio overview on a trading account, then you will immediately see an overview of this account. In this view you can easily look up the total value of your trading account, as well as seeing individual positions, cash values and your orders (on different tabs).
If you click top right on 'Charts', you will see a performance chart showing your account's returns over the past 12 months. This is the return on your portfolio calculated from the same day of the previous year until now, so it gives you an indication of your portfolio's performance over the year.
Your account's return over the past 12 months (indicated as '12M') shows the percentage return for all positions that are still present on your trading account (taking into account your cash transfers in and out, and any transfers in or out of shares). This return is calculated using the MWR (Money-Weighted Return) method.
Attention! Your account's return is not the same as the individual return rates of your positions which you find in the tab 'Positions'. These individual rates are based on the difference between the current price and the break-even price of a certain instrument.
Example: Imagine that you bought, in September 2009, stocks of company X at 30 CHF (excl. costs and taxes), and that you haven't sold or bought anything up to now. This means that the break-even price equals 30 CHF. If the current price is 45 CHF, then the return (excl. costs and taxes) is 15 CHF (45 EUR/30 CHF). This corresponds with a return rate of 50% over a period of 5 years (return/investments, so 15 CHF/30CHF).
Also the total return rate which you find below every group (market, instrument type or A-Z), shows you the return in percentage over all positions within this group. This means that this rate is based on the individual returns of these positions.
For certain types of product in Strateo, it is not possible to view the YTD return.
For some, including Treetop, Merit Capital and Wealtheon, the return is calculated by the manager. This return is shown in the detailed annual reports that they send you.
You can see the latest market news by clicking top right on the 'News' button.
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and click on 'Export as'. Then you can select the file format you want (Excel, XML or CSV). Finally, you can opt to either open this file or store it on your computer.
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and click on 'Currency Exchange'. Then you can simply enter an exchange order.
Click top right on the 'Tools' button and select the currency you want from the Display currency' menu.
Note: This is simply a different way of
displaying the values. Your financial instruments' actual values and currencies
remain unchanged.
If you want to transfer money from your trading account, you can do this very simply, by clicking top right on 'Tools' and then on 'Transfer money'. Then you enter the amount, select the right account number and confirm the transfer.
Note: You can only transfer money in CHF. And you must remember to allow for the value date.
In order to show you the information about your portfolio that interests you the most straight away, we have created a number of views. These views each include different data, offering you a number of different perspectives. You can even create a new view for yourself. The view you selected most recently is remembered for each account, so when you return to your portfolio you immediately see your favourite view.
- The Basic view shows the number of units, the purchase or break-even price (BEP), the current price and today's market value.
- For each position, the Performance view shows the performance of the instrument as well as the return in percentages and in points, as well as the change since the closing price on the previous trading day.
- The Fundamentals overview shows relevant information for each type of instrument. So for a share you can immediately see its price, earnings per share (EPS), price/earnings ratio (P/E), and its market capitalisation (M) and the dividend per share. For a fund it will be its price, its Diamond Rating, its risk, its volatility and the fund value that you will see. For an option you will see its price, expiration date and the exercise price of the option.
- The Detailed view shows more
detailed information for each instrument in your portfolio, together with a
historical chart where this is available.
One important point is that you cannot change the Fundamentals and Detailed views. But you can edit the Basic and Performance views. Just click the Edit link to the right of 'Views'.
Click on the pencil to the right of 'Views'. In the screen that is then displayed, you can select at the top on the right what it is you want to change.
In the left-hand frame you have a list of all the columns that you can display in the view. Drag the column you want from the left-hand frame (headed 'Available columns') to the right-hand frame (headed 'Columns in your view'). If you want to change the sequence of the columns in your view, you can do this by dragging them to a different position within the right-hand frame. You can also remove selected columns from your view by clicking on the waste-bin icon next to the column in the right-hand frame. Finally, close the screen to save your changes.
Note: You cannot amend the Fundamentals and Detailed views. You can change the others.
Click on the pencil to the right of 'Views'. In the screen that is displayed, click on the plus sign at the top on the right. Enter the name you want to give your new view at the top, and then click on the disk icon. Then you can select the columns you want. When you close the screen, these columns are automatically saved.
The new view you have created is automatically available for your other accounts.
The buttons to the left of each position with a plus and a minus sign are the rapid purchase and sales buttons. If you click on the green button with the plus sign, you can very quickly buy additional shares. If you click on the red button with the minus sign, you can very quickly sell some or all of the shares in this position.
Top right in the 'Positions' tab you will see 'Group by'. There you can choose grouping by market, by instrument or no grouping.
You can easily look up the history of a position by clicking on the blue button with the three dots to the left of the position. Then you can select 'Transaction history for this instrument' to see the history for this position.
Another way is to go to the 'History' tab and then search for your instrument by name. Then you will also see the history per instrument.
If you click on the 'Name/Symbol' of your position in the 'Positions' tab, you will immediately see more details for that specific instrument.
The break-even price (BEP) for a position is the selling price you need to achieve to recover your costs for the position, allowing for the purchase and sales costs which you have already incurred for this position.
Now you are able to modify the break-even price (BEP) yourself. The BEP can be changed in the positions screen by clicking on the BEP field for a given position. A frame will then appear where you can enter and save the BEP you want.
Want to go back to the original BEP? You can enter '0' in the BEP field. When the page has been refreshed (press the F5 key to do so), you will again see the original BEP.
Note: If you buy or sell these products again, then the BEP will be calculated on the basis of this amended BEP.To the left of your option positions, you will see a blue button with three dots. If you click on this button, you can switch the 'Auto Sell' function on or off. By default, the 'Auto Sell' function is always switched on.
Note: It is only possible to switch the 'Auto Sell' function on or off for options.
In the 'Cash' tab, you will see all the cash on your trading account that is not invested in financial instruments.
Your available cash is the difference between your total cash and your reserved cash.
Your reserved cash shows cash that is blocked for orders in process that have not yet been executed. The reserved cash also shows the costs and taxes arising from orders in process and/or issued put options.
In the 'Orders' tab, you will see pending orders (that have not yet been executed). You can use either the 'Basic' or the 'Detailed' view to see the information which interests you most.
In the 'Orders' tab, you will see all of your executed, cancelled or rejected orders. You can use either the 'Basic' or the 'Detailed' view to see the information which interests you most. In addition you can select the time period you want to see (day, week, month).
In the 'Orders' tab, you can check the orders you want to cancel. Then you enter the confirmation code (if one is needed) and click on the button 'Confirm removal?.
If you have defined in Your preferences > Site preferences > Order preference that no confirmation code is required before placing stock market orders, then you do not need to enter one here, but can immediately confirm your deletions by clicking on the 'Confirm removal' button.
In the 'History' tab, you can view the transaction history of your trading account. Then you can view the history of a single instrument by searching for it by name or symbol. You can also select the period you want to see.
If you would like to see more information for each transaction, you can download a PDF by clicking on the PDF icon in the first column on the left.
You will also find two PDFs at the top of the history with an overview of the entire portfolio: one for the last day of the previous year and one for the most recent trading day.
In the new portfolio, two corrections were made to the calculation of the total amount of your trading account. On the one hand, the accrued interests of your bonds are incorporated in the total amount of your trading account. On the other hand, the costs and taxes are only subtracted from the total amount when the orders are effectively executed.
How to find a share?
You can find shares (or other financial products) very easily. Please click on « Trading » and « Invest » on the homepage of the secure site to find the search engine. You have the option to search on Symbol, name or ISIN and by market. An easy and quick way is also to type name or symbol in the « search » function which you find on the top right on the homepage.
How to activate real time quotes?
By default real-time quotes are not activated on your account. In order to activate real time quotes for one or several other markets, please use "Your preferences" and "Quotes". We offer real time quotes for 7 market groups. Please use your confirmation code to confirm your choice. Real time quotes are offered free of charge of the Swiss market and are free for other markets from 3 trades per month for the relevant market group.
For any questions please contact us by phone on 0800 15 20 20 (from abroad: +41 800 15 20 20), by email to info@strateo.ch or by Skype (ID strateo.ch) between 8.30 am and 6 pm (Monday to Friday).
How to transfer securities to my account?
The first possibility is to instruct your bank to deliver your securities to your portfolio at Strateo. Alternatively we can take care of the process for you.If you would like to mandate us to arrange the transfer on your behalf, please return a duly signed copy by post of the document "Mandate Securities Transfer". You can find the document in the Document Center on the website.Strateo charges no fees for incoming securities. However there might be charges on the side of the bank where you currently hold the securities.
About dividends
A dividend is the payout of a portion of the corporate profit of a company to its shareholders. The Board of Directors of a company makes a dividend proposal, that has to be approved by its shareholders on the Annual Meeting of shareholders. Usually, the dividend is paid out a couple of days or weeks after the Meeting, if approved during that meeting.
Since a majority of the (Swiss) companies plan their Annual Meeting in April, May or June, it is quite logic that most dividends are distributed in these months.
We can distinguish different types of dividends: although a dividend is mostly paid in cash, it also occurs that dividends are paid in shares.
The frequency of a dividend payment can differ as well. Most dividends are paid once a year, but in other countries (e.g. United Kingdom, United States, ...), a quarterly or semestral dividend payment is more frequent.
In order to be able to claim a dividend, you need to possess the stock on the ex-dividend day. On this day, the value of the dividend will be deducted from the share's value.
You need to buy a stock during the day prior to the ex-dividend day at the latest in order to be entitled to claim the dividend. The dividend is deducted from the stock's value before market opening on the ex-dividend day. So, the stock is trading "ex dividend" as of the ex-dividend day. Whoever buys the stock on the ex-dividend day or later won't be entitled to claim the dividend.
Example: A certain share has a value of 10 CHF and the company decides to pay a dividend of 1 CHF. As of the ex-dividend day, the share will have a value of 9 CHF. Investors who have the stock on their trading account, will automatically receive the dividend on that account.
If you are entitled to a dividend, you won't have to do anything. When you have the stock on your trading account, the dividend will be automatically booked on your trading account.
You have to take into account that there's often a difference between the ex-dividend date and the date on which the dividend will be paid out (the pay date). The pay date is typically a couple of days or a couple of weeks after the ex-dividend date. The tax that you are due will automatically be withheld by Strateo.
This kind of information is published on the company's website. For most listed companies, you will find a section "investor relations" on their website. In this section, you will be able to find more information on dividends.
Usually, this information is published in the (financial) press as well.
When you receive a foreign dividend, you are only subject to withholding tax to the country of your residence (except for US dividends that Switzerland applies a 15% additional withholding tax for Swiss residents). The withholding tax is based on the country of origin of the company that pays the dividend and applies to the gross dividend.
It depends on the nature of the income and the country which they came from. Switzerland has signed agreements against double taxation with many countries so it is usually possible to recover all or part of the foreign withholding tax.
Part of the withholding tax can be recovered directly in the country of source.
The forms in order to request the application of a Convention are available on the website of the Federal Tax Administration in Berne.
The most common types of dividends are:
- Cash dividend
- Choice dividend
- Stock dividend
- DRIP (Dividend Reinvestment Plan)
A cash dividend corresponds to a dividend paid entirely in cash. A dividend paid by a Swiss company is subject to the Swiss withholding tax of 35% (whether you are resident in Switzerland or abroad). A dividend paid by a foreign company is not subject to Swiss withholding tax but is subject to withholding tax at the local source.
A choice dividend gives the shareholder the opportunity to chose between a payment in cash or in stocks.
On the ex dividend date of a choice dividend, you'll receive dividend rights on your trading account. These dividend rights will appear in the section "other markets" of your trading account.
If you do not indicate a preference, dividends will by default be paid out in cash by Strateo.
If you prefer to receive a choice dividend in cash, you do not have to do anything. It will be paid in cash by default.
If you prefer to receive choice dividends in stocks, you can communicate your choice through our website. There is a tool available on our platform which allows you to tell us that you always want to receive a choice dividend in stocks (whenever such a choice dividend is offered).
Despite your choice of receiving choice dividend in stock, it may occur that choice dividend are paid in cash nonetheless. This is due to the "conversion multiple": a certain amount of dividend rights is required to be entitled to one whole new stock. If you are not holding enough dividend rights to be entitled to a whole new stock, the choice dividend can be paid out in cash, despite your preference to receive choice dividend in stocks.
A stock dividend is a dividend that is automatically paid out in stocks. Shareholders don?t have the possibility to opt for a payment in cash.
In case of a stock dividend, on or after the ex-dividend date, dividend rights will be booked on your trading account. You fill find these dividend rights in the section ?other markets? of your trading account.
This kind of information is often available in the section 'Investor Relations' of the company's website.
When a choice dividend or DRIP dividend is distributed, there might be fractions of unused dividend rights left on your trading account. This is the case when not all of the dividend rights can be converted into whole new shares, because of the conversion multiple.
If the fractions equal the value of at least half a stock, Strateo will normally* convert these fractions into one new stock. If the fractions don't equal at least half a stock, they won't be used to be converted into a new stock.
You will have to pay the value of the fractions needed in order to receive an entire new stock (if your fractions equal the value of at least half a new stock). On the other hand, you will receive the value of the fractions that have been sold on your account if the fractions don't equal at least half a stock.
In both of the above mentioned cases, Strateo charges a transaction fee of 2.5 EUR.
* Exceptionally, it may occur that a dividend paying company insists that fractions of unused dividend rights are automatically not converted into a new share, even if those fractions of unused dividend rights equal the value of at least half a stock.
In most cases, shareholder cannot make a choice with regard to dividends. A cash dividend is always paid out in cash. In case of a stock dividend, you receive stocks as a dividend. In both cases (cash dividend, stock dividend), no alternatives exist.
In case of a choice dividend or a DRIP dividend, there is a possibility to make a choice as shareholder.
With regard to stocks listed on Euronext (Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris), it is possible to use a tool on the secured website which allows you to tell us whether you prefer choice dividend (or DRIP dividends) to be paid in cash or stocks (whenever such a choice dividend is offered). By default, Strateo will opt for choice dividend or DRIP dividend in cash.
Where do I find the tool?
You can find this dividend tool in the section "Your preferences" of your Strateo account. Once in the section "Your preferences", please select "Dividend".
An exception for your choice?
If you wish to receive a choice or DRIP dividend exceptionally in "cash", although your default choice is "stocks", please send us an e-mail to this e-mail address:
operations@strateo.ch
Please don't forget to mention the following information:
- your name
- your trading account number
- the name of the stock
- your choice for the cash dividend for this stock, despite the fact you have chosen "stocks" as a default choice in the preferences of your Strateo account.
It works the other way around as well: did you choose "cash" by default, but do you prefer the dividend in stocks for a specific choice dividend or DRIP dividend, than you can alert us by e-mail.
Please be aware that the election period is often limited in time. Such an election period takes usually a couple of days up to some weeks. Please alert us in time if you want an exception of your default choice for a certain stock.
For stocks not listed in Euronext, but another exchange, the default choice is always cash, or the default choice of the customer if this would be different of the dividend cash distribution. On the website, it is not possible to pick your default choice with regard to stocks that are not listed on Euronext.
Strateo Invest
A Strateo Invest Plan is a capital spending program which enables you to invest, without expenses, in a periodic way and with a fixed amount among a portfolio of 15 investments funds carefully selected. In this manner, you will profit from an optimal diversification of your investments starting from 25 CHF per payment!
A Strateo Invest Plan is an investment plan for the long term. We do not recommend using the Strateo Invest Plan for a short-term period investment.
However, it is completely possible to have your savings at any time by transferring these funds on to your trading account. From your trading account you can easily sell your funds.
If you transfer your funds from your Strateo Invest Plan to your Strateo trading account before the end of the fifth year, you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is 9.95 CHF).You close your Strateo Invest Plan any time just by sending us a scan, e-mail, or fax. Then we will transfer your funds to your trading account. If you transfer your funds from your Strateo Invest Plan to your Strateo trading account before the end of the fifth year, you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is 9.95 CHF) per transferred line.
Yes, you can constantly change all the parameters of your Strateo Invest. These modifications will come into effect at the next update. These modifications will affect the composition of your plan.
Attention: a change in the composition of your plan leads
to re-balancing of all your positions.
If for example a fund of worth 26% of your FIP portfolio and you modify the FIP
composition of this fund to 25% we will sell 1% of this fund on the 15th of the
month. But for all other funds as well, we will
adapt all your positions in your plan.
There are no fees or costs, neither entrance fees or fees/expenses related to the periodic payments, nor custodian fees (no custodian fees for private clients, custodian fees for legal entities: consult our fees) , nor expenses if you hold your Strateo Invest during 5 years.
If you stop your Strateo Invest before the end of the fifth year, the funds will be transferred to your trading account and you will have to pay the applicable fee for the purchase of a fund (this fee is CHF 9.95 per transferred line). So if you have a plan with 10 different funds you have to pay 10 times CHF 9.95.
If your account does not have the necessary funds by this date, no investment will be made for said month.
Your Strateo Invest Plan is activated during the first five days of the month that follows the month of the creation of your plan. If you started with an initial deposit, this amount will be transferred the beginning of next month to your Strateo Invest account. However, this amount will only be invested in the month following the creation of your Plan. You will then see this amount appearing in the current value of your Strateo Invest Plan.
Funds
The NAV (Net Asset Value) for most of the funds is calculated on a daily basis (when the market closes). This value is published the following day on the site.
Sales and purchases never take place at this NAV. The actual trade date depends on the policy of the fundcompany.
The table below indicates at which NAV the fund company will normally execute the transaction.
Attention: this table gives only an indication.For eastern markets for example, the NAV you receive will be always one day later.If you want to be certain which NAV you'll receive, we advice you to check the prospectus.
| Buy orders | Sell orders | Comments | |
| ABN AMRO | t | t | |
| Aviva | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Axa Rosenberg | t | t | 1+ for Japan |
| Banque de Luxembourg | t+1 | t+1 | |
| BlackRock Merrill Lynch | t+1 | t+1 | |
| BNP Paribas | t | t | 1+ for Japan, Asia, Australia |
| Capital@Work | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Carmignac | t | t | |
| Credit Agricole | t | t | |
| Ethna | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Fidelity | t | t | |
| Financière de l'Echiquier | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Franklin Templeton | t | t | |
| Gartmore | t | t | |
| Henderson | t | t | |
| Invesco | t+1 | t+1 | |
| J.P. Morgan Fleming | t | t | |
| Quest Management | t | t | |
| Robeco | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Sarasin Bank | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Schröders | t | t | |
| SGAM | t+1 | t+1 | |
| Threadneedle | t | t |
Example:
Today, before 11.30 a.m. (date t) you give a buy order for 10 units of a Franklin Templeton fund. The published NAV is CHF 125.11 per unit. This is the NAV of the previous day. Your purchase will be at the rate of today's NAV (date t), which is only fixed when the market closes. In the meantime, this could have moved to CHF 124.97, for example.
Let's now imagine that today, before 11.30 a.m. (date t), you give a buy order for a Invesco fund. This fund will be bought at tomorrows' NAV (date t+1). This NAV will be published the day after tomorrow.
Attention:
- occasionally, the actual execution dates can differ from the table above.
- It is possible that your order remains "pending", even if it is already executed on the correct date and at the right price. This is due to the fact that the market of investment funds doesn't work in real time and Strateo therefore has to wait on the definitive confirmation of the execution by the funds managers. And this can take some days.
Independently of the size of the order, the transaction costs are CHF 20*.
*Please note that some funds have as entree fee a percentage of your total purchase instead of a fixed fee of CHF 20.- per purchase order.
Concerning stock exchange taxes:
Buying SICAV mutual funds is exempt of stock exchange taxes.
There are no stock exchange taxes on the sale of distribution mutual funds (those that pay a dividend).
However, the sale of capitalised funds (that do not pay dividends) is subject to a sales tax of 1,00%.
As a private investor, you pay custody fees at Strateo. Even for investment funds.
To place a purchase order, you must have enough liquidities on your trading account or own a margin account. Once you have introduced your purchase order, we block the liquidities on your trading account for the estimated value of your order. This is handled at 11.30 a.m. and sent for execution. Depending on the fundcompany, the transaction is carried out at the NAV (Net Asset Value) calculated when the market closes (day t), the day after (day t+1) or even on "day t+2". Please read also FAQ "At what rate can I buy or sell"?
An order can be cancelled up until 11.30 a.m. After this time, it is no longer possible.
For purchases, this can vary between CHF 300 and CHF 1,000, depending on the type of fund. This minimum amount is indicated in the fund description.
For sales, there is no minimum amount.
No, the orders cannot be limited. All the transactions (buy and sell) are carried out at that evening's NAV.
You give a unit order when you want to buy a certain number of units. As you do not know the exact NAV when you place the order, you do not know the exact value of the transaction.
A value order is one in which you want to buy or sell for a given amount of money. So you know exactly how much will be debited or credited to your account, but you don't know the exact number of units that you're buying or selling. The number of negotiated units is calculated when the NIV is fixed. In general, the number of units exchanged will not be a round number, but a six-decimal figure.
The level of risk or volatility is a measure of by how much the current earnings of the fund differs from its average over a long period of time. The greater the difference, the more the fund can fluctuate and therefore the greater the risk involved.
Strateo uses this "average disparity" to calculate the level of risk.
To simplify things, we could say that in the case of a volatility of 7 and an average return of 8%, the expected return will vary between 1% and 15% (i.e., 8% - 7% = 1% as a minimum and 8% + 7% = 15% as a maximum).
Ultimately, the following empirical rule is applied:
| Volatility | Level of risk |
| 0 - 6 | Low |
| 6 - 15 | Below average |
| 15 - 23 | Average |
| 23 - 30 | Above average |
| >30 | High |
This is the commission paid to fund managers. It is deducted directly by the manager on the fund's NAV. So you do not pay it. All the figures governing returns are calculated with the management commission.
A fund's return is the increase (or diminution) of a fund's value as a percentage, perhaps corrected by paid dividends.
The return can be calculated over various periods (from 1 day to 7 years). For periods over one year, the return is annualised.
You can find the returns of each fund in it's factsheet.
No, we do not advise you on the choice of funds. But use the search engine to help you pinpoint the fund that is perhaps best adapted to your situation.
It is possible that your order remains "pending", even if it is already executed on the correct date and at the right price. This is due to the fact that the market of investment funds doesn't work in real time and Strateo therefore has to wait on the definitive confirmation of the execution by the funds managers. And this can take some days.
The diamond indicates how a fund performed over the past 5
years. The performance is calculated by comparison of the funds with funds of an
identical peer group. This calculation is done on the basis of end-of-month
data. Only funds that belong to a clearly defined category are taken into
account for this type of rating.
Moreover the fund must exist minimum 5 years. This means that not all funds can
obtain 1 diamond or more.
The rating is based on 5 criteria, which each have an equal weight:
- Consistency : 20%
- Performance: 20%
- Volatility: 20%
- Alpha: 20%
- Capital Preservation: 20%
The weighted average of the five percentages results in the final percentage.
This percentage is the basis for the assignment of the crowns.
- 5 diamonds for the 10% best performing funds within the
category
- 4 diamonds for the next 22.55% best performing funds within the category
- 3 diamonds for the next 35% best performing funds within the category
- 2 diamonds for the next 22.55% best performing funds within the category
- 1 diamond for the 10% lowest performing funds within the category
Bonds
Le prix d'une obligation et donc aussi son rendement actuariel est déterminé par différents éléments. Les plus importants sont :
- Le taux du marché et le coupon
Si une obligation déterminée offre un coupon qui se situe considérablement au-dessus des taux du marché, cette obligation va être cotée à un prix élevé. Car, qui ne serait pas intéressé à investir dans une obligation qui rapporte du 10%, alors que le taux du marché n'est que du 3% ?
L'obligation deviendra donc plus chère (le prix va être à la hausse, et le rendement actuariel à la baisse) selon que le taux du marché baisse. Le cours de l'obligation va aussi baisser (le rendement actuariel va grimper) si le taux du marché part à la hausse. - La durée de vie restante de l'obligation
A l'inverse du cours des actions, le cours d'une obligation ne va pas grimper sans limite. Ceci s'explique par le fait que chaque obligation a une date d'échéance, à laquelle l'obligation sera remboursée à sa valeur nominale (souvent 100%).
Au plus on se rapproche de la date d'échéance (où l'obligation est remboursée à 100%), au plus le potentiel de baisse et de hausse est limité.
Une obligation à court terme va donc toujours moins fluctuer qu'une obligation à long terme. - La qualité de l'émetteur
Si vous avez le choix d'investir dans deux obligations identiques, une qui est émise par une entreprise multinationale très solvable et une autre par une entreprise qui connaît des difficultés financières, vous allez choisir l'émetteur le plus solvable. Cette obligation sera donc plus chère que la même obligation émise par une entreprise affaiblie. Autrement dit, le rendement actuariel de l'émetteur affaibli sera plus élevé que celui de l'émetteur le plus fort. Le surplus de rendement que vous pouvez recevoir en investissant dans une obligation moins solvable, vous pouvez la considérer comme une "prime de risque".
Si vous avez une obligation dans votre portefeuille dont le rating (qui est une bonne mesure de la solvabilité de l'émetteur) s'améliore soudainement (par ex. Standard & Poors élève le rating de A à AA ), ceci entraîne une hausse du prix de l'obligation et donc en même temps une baisse du rendement actuariel.
The coupon of an obligation is determined by the issuer and remains in theory valid throughout all the obligation lifespan. Even for obligations with a floating coupon, the terms of the coupon are laid down. On the other hand, the actuarial return does not remain constant. According to whether the price of the obligation goes up or drops, the actuarial return will drop or go up. The price of an obligation always follows the opposite evolution of the actuarial return of an obligation.
Example :
An obligation has the following characteristics:
| Lifespan : | 7 ans |
| Coupon : | 4.50% |
Let us suppose that the price of this obligation climbs up to 101.25%, the actuarial return then will drop down to 4.29%. An investor who buys this obligation at 101.25% will still receive a coupon of 4.50%, but since he bought the obligation more expensive (101.25%) than the price to which he will be refunded in 7 years (100.00%), its actuarial return will be only 4.29%.
A l'exception de l'obligation à zéro coupon, toutes les obligations paient à l'investisseur un coupon périodique (souvent annuel). Ce paiement d'intérêts, dans le cas d'un coupon annuel, n'intervient qu'une seule fois (un seul jour) sur l'année, le jour de la date du coupon. Si vous détenez une obligation que vous souhaitez vendre un jour avant qu'elle ne paie son coupon, vous recevrez un pro-rata du coupon. Vous allez alors être payé 364/365 du coupon. C'est ce qu'on appelle les intérêts échus. L'acheteur de l'obligation devra payer ces intérêts échus. A la date du coupon, l'acheteur recevra alors l'entièreté du coupon.
Autrement dit: le vendeur reçoit un pro-rata du coupon pour la période qui court depuis la date de paiement du dernier coupon jusqu'à la date du jour où il a vendu son obligation.
C'est toujours l'acheteur de l'obligation qui doit payer ce montant à titre d'intérêts échus au vendeur de l'obligation.
Ici réside une différence essentielle avec le paiement de dividendes d'une action: l'investisseur qui un jour avant le paiement du dividende vend son action, ne touchera aucun dividende. L'acheteur d'une action ne devra jamais rembourser le vendeur un pro-rata du dividende auquel le vendeur pensait avoir droit.
En tant qu'investisseur en obligations, il ne vous est pas non-plus nécessaire d'attendre la date du coupon avant de vendre votre obligation. Vous êtes toujours payés pour les intérêts échus auxquels vous avez droit.
- If you are resident in Switzerland : 0% withholding unless a tax is deducted by the country of your residence.
- If you are resident within the EU (25 countries) : 35% unless you sign the document "Authorisation for EU regulation on savings income taxation".
- If you are resident outside the EU: 0% withholding unless a tax is deducted by the country of your residence.
Il est possible d'introduire des ordres limites pour les obligations qui peuvent être négociées en ligne.
Pour les obligations qui ne peuvent être négociées qu'offline, il n'est pas possible d'introduire des ordres limites. Seuls les ordres au prix du marché sont acceptés.
Actuellement, il y a environ 250 obligations que nous cotons en temps réel et qui sont négociables online. Cette offre va être systématiquement complétée.
Il s?agit d?une condition qui nous est imposée par Moody?s. Cependant vous pouvez toujours faire des recherches sur d?autres critères (type de coupon, maturité, etc) sans signer le contrat.
Attention : Les ratings attribués par Moody?s ne donnent aucune garantie de rendement quelconque.
Equities
You have direct access to the most important stock exchanges in Europe such as the Swiss stock market ( SWX ) , Xetra Frankfurt, Euronext Paris, Euronext Brussels , Euronext Amsterdam, London Stock Exchange, the Milan stock exchange, the Madrid stock exchange and also the Nordic stock exchanges with Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen.
In addition, you also have access to the American market (NYSE, AMEX, Nasdaq and OTC-BB) and to the Canadian market (TSX & TSX Venture).
For the American stock exchanges, you also have access to ?Extended Hours Trading?, which gives you the possibility to trade not only before, but also after opening hours of the stock exchange.
Besides the traditional stock exchanges, you also have access to trading in options, which is possible on both the European option stock exchange (LIFFE) and the American option stock exchange (CBOE).
Trading in stocks and bonds is also at your fingertips.
You may find more explanation about the different stock exchanges by clicking on market regulations.
Options
Strateo Pro
You can find all the useful information on our website Strateo Pro
The "margin" is the amount you have to deposit on your Strateo Pro account before starting to trade. This amount is used to cover potential losses. Your margin has to be cash (in CHF) on your Strateo Pro account.
Depending on the deposited margin (minimum CHF 2,500), you will be authorised to take some positions. The largest is your margin, the largest your positions can be.
No, that is not possible.
Yes this is possible. You can choose from three different currencies - CHF, EUR and USD. Having a Strateo Pro account in one currency is actually not a problem to take positions in another currency. The Strateo Pro account is only a margin account, therefore you do not have to support any exchange operations to take position on a Dow Jones Future, for example. Only the profits (or the losses) will be expressed in USD and automatically converted in CHF, but not the nominal amount (much larger). Considering this, the exchange costs remain very small.
You have to transfer your margin amount on your Strateo Pro account. You have to transfer a minimum amount of CHF 2,500.
Strateo Pro is a very powerful platform. The demo version of Strateo Pro is the exact copy of the live version; this version is therefore very heavy for our servers. Furthermore, people who are not clients of Strateo can download the demo platform. We think that 20 days is sufficient enough for the interested investors to know the platform. Opening a demo version of the platform for a too long period could be harmful for the live version.
This operation has to be made on the Strateo platform and not on the Strateo Pro platform.
Go to: Bank>Transfer>Internal transfer.
These transfers are not possible when the Bank is closed. And this can take 15 minutes before the money is transferred on your account.
The principle of a "margin account" at Strateo Pro is completely different from the principle of a "trading account" at Strateo:
- A "margin account" is used as a guaranty for all the positions taken on the Strateo Pro platform.
- On the other hand, a "trading account" is used to buy and sell securities.
This overview is only available on the Strateo Pro platform and not in the historic of Strateo.
Attention: These are liquidities you have on your "margin account" at the beginning of the day at the mentioned date or in other words available liquidities the previous evening of the mentioned date. However, all the up-to-date information (in real time) about Strateo Pro (linked to your positions, your orders or your cash) is precisely explained on the Strateo Pro platform.
Yes, the interest rate changes regularly. If you wish to know the current interest rate, please contact our helpdesk.
These are paid quarterly on your "trading account" of Strateo.
The taxation of savings is applied.
You will receive, by mail, a login and a password from our services. With these data, you will be able to log on for the first time. Afterwards, you have to activate your Key. In order to do it, you have to contact our services by phone: 0800 15 30 30. When your Key is activated, you can change your password.
Market monitor
Our Market Watch is a streaming tool that provides you with live updates for stocks on 18 markets. You can view all the main shares at a glance and their information refreshes automatically.
Use the buttons for rapid buying and selling and follow your own favorite shares in a separate watch list. You can activate real time quotes for each market. This option is free for the Swiss market and free from 3 trades per month on the relevant market.
Global Analyzer
The Global Analyzer is a powerful tool of analysis which characterizes a certain share according to five key aspects: Valuation, Outlook, Timing, Quality and Risk.
For each of these five aspects an in-depth analysis is realized which always leads to a clear conclusion going of inferior until excellent.
To finish, the conclusions of each of the aspects are combined in a single global analysis. It can be: sell, sell gradually, keep, accumulate or buy.
Global Analyzer is the fruit of years of research.
Global Analyzer is fed by thousands up-to-ate data on ten thousands shares.
Those data are collected from the biggest suppliers of data such as Factset, Interactive Dated and Reuters. These data are processed daily in several analysis modules which base themselves on the most important economic literature in each of 5 key aspects (Valuation, Outlook, Timing, Quality, Risk).
There are two versions of Global Analyzer:
- A free version (BASIC): only the synthesis of the results of the analysis is available. These results are identical to those of the version PREMIUM.
- A paying version (PREMIUM): it is a complete analysis of the share including a descriptive text, graphs and a conclusion
The BASIC is completely free and all the clients of Strateo can consult it unlimitedly. For all the shares you have in your portfolio, you will have free access to the PREMIUM analyses. This will allow you, without any charges, to manage in an optimal way the shares you possess.
The PREMIUM costs CHF 25 per month for an unlimited number of analyses. On the other hand, this version is free if the client has at least 3 executed stock exchange transactions in the month. For that month, the monthly cost will not be charged.
For all the shares of your portfolio, you receive an unlimited number of analyses PREMIUM. It will allow you, without any charges, to manage in an optimal way the shares that you possess.
The PREMIUM Global Analyzer is a complete report of analysis which is comparable to a research note established by a broker or by a financial analyst. It contains a detailed and clear analysis, illustrated with graphs, tables and a conclusion.
A PREMIUM report contains on average of 3 to 4 pages.
The BASIC Global Analyzer is a mini-report where you only have the conclusion of the PREMIUM report.
Each Strateo client has an automatic and free access to the Global Analyzer BASIC. In addition, each client has free access to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer for shares he holds in his Strateo portfolio. This access is also automatic.
For an unlimited access to the PREMIUM Global Analyzer, you have to indicate it in "Your preferences", in the section "Site Preferences".
In case you would like to stop your PREMIUM subscription, go to Your preferences > Site Preferences > Global Analyzer on the secure website of Strateo. There, you need to click on Cancel. Your subscription will be cancelled as from the month following your demand.
For the unlimited use of the PREMIUM Global Analyzer, the monthly cost is CHF 25 . This cost has to be paid at the end of every calendar month. It means that if for example you activate the PREMIUM Global Analyzer on April 20th, you will be able to use the PREMIUM service only 10 days and will also have to pay CHF 25 for these ten days.
Every month started counts for a whole month. When you stop your subscription, it will be cancelled as from the month following your demand.
The monthly CHF 25 fee will be credited on your trading account.
The monthly CHF 25 fee will not be charged, if you have at least three executed stock exchange transactions in that month.
No, the Global Analyzer limits itself only to the analysis of shares.
The Idea Center is a tool for the trader who wants to make a quick list of all the potentially interesting shares. Such a list is obtained by the implementation of fast selection according to several criteria.
It is absolutely necessary that the investor analyses the shares on the list thoroughly before taking an investment decision. This analysis can, among others, be made by the Global Analyzer.
Yes.
In this way, each subjective element is excluded from the analysis and the Global Analyzer can concentrate itself only on objective and reliable data.
No, Strateo does not have its own "trading book " and thus, does not hold any position.
In this way, we can guarantee an optimal objectivity of the Global Analyzer.
The Global Analyzer uses up-to-date information from reliable data suppliers, such as Factset, Reuters and Interactive Dated. The analysis models which are used by the Global Analyzer are based on the most relevant literature published in the last 50 years.
Therefore, we can say that Global Analyzer is a reliable and scientifically supported investment tool.
It is however incorrect to state that all the recommendations of the Global Analyzer lead inevitably to successful investments. The Global Analyzer is certainly no crystal ball which can predict the evolution of the price of a share!
Therefore, we can say that Global Analyzer is investment tool.
On the other hand, it would be false to say that all the recommendations of the Global Analyzer lead inevitably to success for an investment.
The Global Analyzer is not certainly a crystal ball capable of predicting the evolution of the price of a share!
No. The recommendations of the Global Analyzer are totally independent from your investor's profile.
No. The recommendations of the Global Analyzer are totally independent from your trading portfolio.
The update happens daily for all the shares.
This way, you can consult every day the up-to-date analyses of the shares which interest you.
Idea centre
The 'Idea Centre' is a practical tool which allows you to
compare stocks at a glance. In this way, you can make a first selection out of
thousands of stocks.
On one hand, you can do this via predefined investment themes in the first tab
of the 'Idea Centre'. An investment theme is a list with fixed selection
criteria regarding one specific theme allowing you to find stocks based on
these criteria. Different investment themes are set up, all viewed from a
different investment angle, and all resulting in a shortlist of the most
interesting stocks for each theme. In these investment themes, you'll find
among others 'Conservative European Large Caps', 'Stable Income Shares' and 'Rising Expectation Shares'.
On the other hand, you can search stocks based on your preferred criteria in the second tab of the 'Idea Centre', namely 'Advanced Options'. You can select different criteria and verify which stocks meet your criteria.
WARNING: The Idea Centre is a tool helping you with your online investments, but it cannot be considered as investment advice.
Some of the criteria's you chose for your selection are probably too restricted. Check the selection criteria you gave in and adapt if you want
The investment themes results are daily updated. So, if you do not want to miss any of the information one of you favourite investment themes could give you, we advice you to check it on a daily basis.
Every day we get thousands of data's on all shares (company
results, new perspectives, analyst's recommendations) and we carry out new
analysis (technical analysis and fundamental analysis). These new figures can
lead to new ideas or can lead to the withdrawal of certain shares of a list of
an investment theme.
For this reason, each list can change every day. If you do not want to lose any
information an investment theme can offer, we advise you to consult it on a
daily basis.
The lists proposed via our Investment themes do not guarantee
a positive evolution of the share's quotes. These lists are not investment
advices, but are meant to give you investment ideas which are the result of
very strict selection based on severe and objective criteria's.
The world of investments is not an exact science. What today can be seen as an
opportunity can radically change the day after!
Equiduct
Equiduct, a regulated European market, is an alternative trading platform with Börse Berlin AG as a supervising authority. It analyses and compares the prices on different platforms (Chi-X, Turquoise, BATS) and Euronext. Equiduct then executes at the best price.
Click here to take note of the order execution policy of Strateo and click here to take note of the Equiduct transaction rules.
Currently only specific stocks and trackers on Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris will be negotiated on Equiduct. The other financial instruments (warrants, turbo's, speeders) are not tradable on Equiduct. In the future other shares might be added. As soon as a stock is negotiable on Equiduct, the buying or selling will be automatically sent to Equiduct, except if you decided to sent your stock orders to Euronext.
You don't have to take any action. The stock orders on certain stocks and trackers on Brussels, Amsterdam or Paris will be automatically sent to Equiduct. You are sure to get the "Best Execution". There is no change to the transaction fees or any other tariffs.
When you don't want the "Best Execution" service, you may choose via "Your Preferences" on the secured website to send ALL your orders to Euronext. In this case you also have to take note of the fact that your orders will be considered as a specific instruction as described in article 5 of the order execution policy of Strateo. Afterwards you may choose to send your orders again on Equiduct via "Your Preferences" on the secured website with as a consequence that a stock bought on Euronext can be sold on Equiduct and vice versa.
When your order is sent to Equiduct, the order will not be visible in the Euronext order book. Only the market depth of Euronext will be shown, in other words only the orders sent to Euronext will be shown.
You can find more info on http://www.equiduct.com/en/
Collar Logic
The Collar is designed to protect the investor and aims at avoiding order executions to far from the last traded price.
With Collar Logic, NYSE Euronext defines two thresholds (= the collar) between which trades can take place. The level of the thresholds adapts automatically to the last price traded. You can find information on the collar on the page with detailed price information, under "price margin".
Strateo has chosen to execute automatically all orders outside the Collar after showing a warning message. When you enter an order with a limit that is outside the Collar, you will receive a warning that tells you your limit is outside the Collar. Nevertheless you can confirm your order (by introducing your confirmation code) and a confirmation message will then automatically be sent to Euronext and your order will be executed outside of the Collar. When you introduce a market order, you will receive no warning and your order can be executed outside of the Collar. Orders that are in the order book for a period longer than 30 seconds and that are matched outside of the Collar will be rejected by Euronext. This can only happen due to a sudden price movement, where the match price is outside of the Collar. When an order is partially executed, the remaining part will be cancelled in case of a next match outside of the Collar.
Do you have a complaint?
Strateo is dedicated to an excellent customer service. An independent survey by Link AG (March 2013) confirmed the excellent level of our customer satisfaction.
If nevertheless you have a complaint about our
services, please contact our customer care on 0800 15 30 30, or by e-mail info@strateo.ch.
They will do all the necessary to help you.
Attention: in accordance with our General Terms and Conditions, your complaint must be notified to Strateo within five days of the day during which you become aware of the problem or are deemed to have become aware of the reason of your dissatisfaction.
Corporate actions
Strateo established a document in order to guide its customers through various questions regarding Corporate Actions.
Companies take strategic decisions in regard to their capital structure (capital increase, a capital reduction, a split, a spin off, mergers and acquisitions, an IPO, etc.). This document will help you understand these transactions.
