www.konsento.ch/en/transparenzregister-blogs/transparency-act-and-transparency-register-what-swiss-smes-need-to-know
Back

Transparency Act and Transparency Register: What Swiss SMEs Need to Know

Summary

What does the Swiss transparency law mean for SMEs, board members and shareholders? This overview highlights key obligations, processes and practical implications. The full guide is available in the Transparency Register Hub.

The new transparency framework affects not only large corporations, but especially SMEs. While the obligations may seem straightforward at first glance, their practical implementation reveals a much higher level of complexity—particularly in the interaction between companies, shareholders and beneficial owners.

A key challenge lies in understanding the roles involved: companies must collect and report data, shareholders must provide accurate information, and beneficial owners are at the centre of disclosure. Early preparation makes a significant difference in managing these requirements efficiently.

Read the full article with a comprehensive breakdown of obligations, roles and practical consequences.

‍

Lese-Empfehlungen
January 21, 2025
3 mins
Declaration of assignment: Who must keep the original and who must keep the copy?
March 19, 2025
4 minutes
What is a circular resolution of the Board of Directors?
February 16, 2025
5 mins
Legally compliant share transfer in Switzerland: What you need to know
Register now
Register now for the free share register
Register now

Folge uns auf Social Media

•
FAQ

Häufig gestellte Fragen

Jetzt loslegen
Rechtliches

What is the Transparency Register?

The Transparency Register is a central, non-public federal database managed by the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP). It records information about the beneficial owners of legal entities – the natural persons who ultimately control a company. Access is restricted to authorities and financial intermediaries, allowing them to fulfil anti-money-laundering, tax, and supervisory duties.

Rechtliches

What is the Transparency Act?

The Transparency Act (TJPG) – formally the Federal Act on the Transparency of Legal Entities and the Identification of Beneficial Owners – introduces new disclosure obligations for Swiss companies. Its aim is to increase corporate transparency, prevent money laundering, and align Swiss law with international FATF standards. A key element of the Act is the new Transparency Register, which will come into force in 2026.

Rechtliches

What reporting obligations do Swiss companies have under the Transparency Act?

Companies must identify and verify their beneficial owners, report the relevant details to the Transparency Register, and keep their records up to date. Specifically, the duties include: Identifying and verifying beneficial owners Reporting them electronically to the Transparency Register Updating any changes to ownership or control Keeping supporting documentation and evidence The registration process will take place via a central electronic platform or through the commercial register office.

Produkt

How can companies prepare for the Transparency Act and the Transparency Register?

The best preparation is to ensure that ownership and shareholding data are accurate, complete, and up to date. A properly structured ownership register forms the foundation for smooth future reporting to the Transparency Register. Digital tools such as Konsento’s share register help companies maintain compliant records, identify data gaps, and stay ready for upcoming reporting duties — efficiently and in full legal compliance.

Digitize your corporate action – fast, secure, compliant.

Try Konsento’s digital share register – free for up to 150 shareholders.

Book a free demoGet started