Le Bijou

The Swiss real estate market in 2024 presents several promising opportunities for investors. This tendency is evident from the following recent changes in interest rates: on June 20th, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) lowered the key interest rate from 1.5% to 1.25%. What does this tell us? We are seeing a more measured pace of increase in property prices compared to past years. This trend is influenced by two major forces: ◼️ Declining mortgage rates; ◼️ Significant rise in rental costs. Let’s also note the trend towards sustainable development. Although sustainability is still relevant, it has diminished in priority among the population. Specifically, it fell from 40% to 26% over the past year, with a sharper decline among younger individuals, whose interest halved from 26% to 13%, according to Helvetia and MoneyPark. Meanwhile, the aspiration to own a single-family house remains robust as the most ideal form of accommodation. By the beginning of 2025, the affordability of homeownership in Switzerland is expected to improve and offer financial advantages in the long term. Investors can benefit from higher potential returns on investment through increased rents, shorter vacancies, and long-term capital appreciation. Stay on top of the Swiss real estate market trends with Le Bijou to explore the latest investment opportunities that address current real estate influence forces.

One week before the Art Basel fair brings the international art world together, Zurich becomes a bustling hub for artists and art lovers. ⁤⁤This is thanks to the Zurich Art Weekend — three days of free exhibitions, lectures, and guided tours offered by Zurich museums and galleries. The event includes more than 65 venues across the city, presenting over 75 exhibitions that showcase Zurich’s contemporary art. ⁤ Designed for collectors, artists, and anyone with a passion for art, the event promises an unforgettable journey of creativity and expression. ⁤ ⁤Make the most of your Zurich Art Weekend experience without worrying about the accommodations – Le Bijou invites you to stay in tech-enabled apartments located in the heart of Zurich. Visit lebijou.com to book luxury quarters that will add to the memories of an unforgettable weekend as you celebrate the depth and beauty of contemporary art.

When considering passive income opportunities in Switzerland, real estate is lauded for its inherent stability and sustained long-term growth. Four options reign supreme among real estate investment options, yet the pivotal question remains: Which is the ultimate passive income source? 1. Direct ownership Purchasing property for rental purposes is a common strategy in investing. However, it requires a significant commitment of capital. While mortgage financing can alleviate this challenge, the interest paid often erodes much of the rental yield. Not to mention direct ownership also demands substantial time and effort, which can contradict its “passive” label, especially for individual investors. 2. Fractional ownership Fractional ownership allows investors to acquire a small share of a property and benefit proportionally from income and capital growth. Enabled by tokenization, this approach opens doors for individuals with just a few thousand francs to invest in, and receive income from, Swiss real estate. 3. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding platforms provide opportunities for fractional investment with relatively low capital requirements, sometimes starting from as little as CHF 100 while offering yields of up to 10%. Yet this way of investing comes with dozens of potential pitfalls such as the property’s quality and security, low management standards, inconsistency in tenant flow, and many more. 4. Debt Debt is a passive income source that allows investors to profit from capital lent to real estate companies. Opting for a bond ETF, while possibly a reasonable entry point, has relatively high volatility and correlation with other public market assets like stocks, unlike the debt of private Swiss real estate companies. With the variety of offerings available, investors should be able to find opportunities that best match their requirements in terms of both return and risk, allowing for earning well while also sleeping well. Visit invest.lebijou.com and disco

Most investors seeking entry into real estate fail to think outside the box. What they most likely choose from are REITs, which like any publicly listed asset are subject to daily market volatility; direct ownership (buy-to-rent) that requires significant capital to start, further concentrating risk and limiting diversification; and options like flipping houses that also require a great deal of time and money. The good news is that, in today’s market, there is an alternative means of investing in a real estate business. This is comparable to direct ownership, except that investors are buying a share in a limited liability company (specifically set up to invest in real estate) or a project curated by that company. What makes this superior to most traditional options? 1. Fully operational business With all its hassles, property management is typically outsourced by the business. Imagine: you're a co-owner of real estate and neither have to manage cleaning, catering, or concierge services, nor deal with difficult tenants. 2. Lower entry threshold Building a well-diversified portfolio of properties in prime locations necessitates a substantial upfront capital commitment, often beyond the means of investors. By pooling capital with like-minded individuals in a real estate company, investors can access a broader range of properties and thus a higher diversification level. 3. Better cash flow Individual real estate investors frequently encounter unexpected expenses, such as property damage or renovations, which can strain cash reserves. However, by investing in a real estate company with a diverse portfolio of properties, the likelihood of simultaneous maintenance issues across all units diminishes. Consequently, investors are mitigating liquidity risks. In the 21st century, real estate businesses both make it easier to invest in and maintain real estate and also offer greater diversification and higher returns than most investors can get on their own. Visit invest

To paraphrase Emily Dickinson, the future is made of eternal nows. Consequently, the question many wonder is, “How can one balance the needs of the current now with those of the future nows?” The good news is that everyone can enjoy today’s sun without sacrificing the twilight years. The key is to simply keep in mind four simple maxims: 1. Use the 1% rule for impulse buys While resisting impulse buys can be challenging, too many can devastate your savings. For any impulse purchase worth more than 1% of your annual income, sleep on the purchase. Most will lose their shine in the light of a new day. 2. Keep the 50/30/20 rule The 50/30/20 rule is one of the simplest, yet most effective, ways to save money. Basically, the rule suggests you should spend 50% of the income on needs (such as rent or mortgage), 30% on wants (things you don’t really need but that make you happy), and the remaining 20% on your savings and investments. 3. Favor experiences over possessions Many studies show that experiences deliver longer-lasting happiness than possessions. So consider a daily walk or regular weekend away with loved ones as an investment in your happiness. There is no need to spend a lot of money, but you do need to invest your time. 4. Multiply your savings by investing Even with higher interest rates, holding cash delivers poor long-term returns. Instead, consider using some of your savings to multiply your wealth. How much should you invest? Try the “100 minus your age” rule, which guides individuals on how much to invest in higher-reward assets. For example, if you are 40 years old, consider allocating 60% of your investments to higher-return assets like growth stocks and private equity as well as 40% to less volatile assets like debt (and perhaps real estate). While you don’t need to move to a hermitage to ensure a prosperous retirement, neither should you live like a king. As with many things in life, balance is a key. Follow Le Bijou for more inform

The adage "it takes money to make money" certainly holds true, but when it comes to real estate, it also involves locking up substantial amounts of money for long periods of time. So, before you invest in real estate, it's essential to determine how much liquidity you need in your portfolios and understand the varying degrees of liquidity across different real estate markets and properties. Insufficient liquidity can restrict you from taking advantage of future investment opportunities and rebalancing your portfolio in the face of changing market conditions. Before investing in real estate, consider these factors that influence market and property liquidity: 1. Location High demand locations have higher turnover and thus higher liquidity. Even within well-regarded neighborhoods, specific streets will have higher demand than others because of their proximity to services or the views they offer. While selling a property overnight might be a stretch, weeks could be all you need in high-demand areas. 2. Property type A single-family house or apartment will usually be more liquid than a mansion or a warehouse. It’s all about the demand level. And doing your research when looking for one will surely pay in the end. 3. Selling costs and taxes Different jurisdictions come with varying processes and costs when it comes to selling a house or your share of it. The higher the costs and bureaucratic obstacles, the less liquid a property is. 4. Financial conditions Higher interest rates and reluctant banks make it hard for buyers to get the cash they need to buy a house, thereby diminishing market liquidity. Real estate investment is rewarding but must be done carefully. Liquidity should be a big part of your decision-making process, especially in today’s environment, where interest rates may still be on the rise. Visit invest.lebijou.com to get a glimpse of our portfolios of superior real estate.

When your heart pounds to the rhythm of drums and the soft notes of saxophones blend with soulful voices, transporting you into a dreamlike state, this means jazz has returned to your heart and the streets of Switzerland. This year, Bern welcomes the 49th International Jazz Festival, running from March 19th to May 25th at Marians Jazzroom. Founded in 1976 by the esteemed Hans Zurbrügg, affectionately known as “Mr. Jazz” among locals, this event has blossomed into a celebration of diversity and creativity. The festival creates an atmosphere that allows everyone to relish in the evolution of jazz across different cultures and generations, from young enthusiasts to followers of traditional jazz from New Orleans. This year, the International Jazz Festival will enchant its visitors with over 200 individual concerts, featuring an exceptional lineup of talent from around the globe. Among them are emerging blues artist D.K. Harrell, devoted to preserving traditional blues, and Billy Cobham, acclaimed as “[jazz] fusion’s greatest drummer.” Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the enchanting ambiance and witness the magic of live music at its peak during your visit to Bern. Book your stay at one of Le Bijou’s apartments in the heart of Bern via lebijou.com/contacts and enjoy the city's charm, covered in the rhythm and harmony of jazz.

When your birthday falls at an age that ends in a zero, it's an occasion worth celebrating in a big way. Creating a memorable event for this milestone and sharing it with your loved ones helps to reflect on the past and embrace your aspirations for the future. Here are 4 essential ingredients for the perfect birthday event. “You don’t get older, you get better.” — Shirley Bassey 1. An easily accessible location Nothing spoils plans like a hard-to-access or a difficult-to-find location. Opt for a venue that offers easy access by road and public transportation, such as a central city area. 2. Guest accommodation Keep in mind that some of your guests might need to travel to attend your celebration. Therefore, it’s best to select a venue that provides accommodation with enough rooms for all your traveling guests. Make it easy for your guests who have made the effort to come a long way. 3. High-quality food and beverages Choose a venue that offers quality food and beverages at a reasonable price. This will save you the hassle of having to organize this separately. 4. A venue with activities Many birthday party venues come with inclusive services, such as decorations, entertainment, photo booths, and more. Although these extras may incur additional costs, they can create memories that will last a lifetime. Incorporating these 4 key ingredients into your birthday celebration will ensure an amazing and carefree experience. Nestling all from in-house kitchens and open-air terraces to full celebration management, including guest accommodation and providing food and entertainment, Le Bijou might be the best choice for your next big birthday. Visit lebijou.com/host-an-event to find out more about organizing the perfect party at the most spectacular locations.

Bonds have long been viewed as a steadier income option compared to stocks. The recent volatility in sovereign bonds and the uncertainty around interest rates, however, have caused many people to step back from the bond market. Barron’s magazine puts it like this: “A reality check is hitting the bond market.” That said, not all bonds are the same, especially those within private markets, which may perform differently from their public counterparts – and Le Bijou bonds are no exception. Here are three advantages that elevate them in today’s market: 1. The unique combination of bonds and real estate The coupons of the Le Bijou bonds primarily come from the revenue of fully operational Le Bijou properties in the most prime locations across Switzerland. This provides a strong foundation for the bonds and the unique diversification benefits for investors, as well as the opportunity for Le Bijou to fuel further expansion and unlock new destinations and properties. A win-win. 2. A high coupon rate The current issue of Le Bijou bonds has a coupon rate of 7.125% p.a., surpassing the majority of Switzerland’s popular public markets’ alternatives. For example, the SBI Corporate Total Return index, tracking the Swiss franc-denominated bonds of corporate organizations listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, suggests the average coupon for such in 2023 has been as little as 1.15% as of the end of November. 3. The dependability of Le Bijou Le Bijou has established an outstanding track record with its bonds. Since its first issue in 2016, Le Bijou has consistently met coupon and principal payments, not missing a single one – even during the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit invest.lebijou.com/le-bijou-bond/ to discover more about how you can take advantage.

Le Bijou became a globally recognized brand for its modern apartments, where the coziness of home and European design intersect. What's the secret to each apartment’s allure? It’s simple: We produce and build Le Bijou ourselves. Every inch is thoughtfully planned to the smallest detail, with nothing left to chance. Let's take a deeper dive into our process. 1. Research and selection of location Le Bijou thoroughly researches the premium real estate market, using our extensive network to identify the most compelling opportunities. We have strict criteria for location, quality, infrastructure, vision of ambiance, and aesthetics, and we only select opportunities if they check all of those boxes. 2. Planning and production of apartments Our design team develops our signature contemporary chalet-chic interiors. We want to get every detail right and therefore attach our bespoke technology in the planning phase. The design team then produces photorealistic 3D renderings, enabling us to walk around the planned rooms with VR goggles and other tools. The production team then manufactures interior modules off-site. The whole spectrum of the interior is produced, including installed tech, before sending the team to the construction site. 3. Construction and technology integration We keep the construction process short to decrease rental downtime. Once everything is up and running, our IT team connects all pre-installed tech and thoroughly tests the apartment. Prior to opening a new Le Bijou unit for our guests, we inspect every aspect, optimizing processes and then giving it a final check. Once completed and quality-checked at all stages, Le Bijou gladly opens the apartment’s doors to guests. Our holistic approach ensures that the Le Bijou experience is consistent, from the drawing board to placing the Bettmümpfeli (bedtime chocolate on the pillow). Stay with Le Bijou and experience the ultimate comfort and luxurious atmosphere of our apartments.

A weekend in Zurich: the best places you should visit

Zurich is renowned as a major global financial center. Besides its importance in the world of finance, Switzerland’s largest city has so much more to offer as a must-visit destination for travelers. In this post, we will explore some of Zurich's best spots that should be on every visitor’s itinerary. 1. Bahnhofstrasse Zurich is a city where modernity meets tradition - and the Bahnhofstrasse is a perfect example of the harmonious blending of old and new. Stretching from the central station to Lake Zurich, this world-famous boulevard is known for being one of the most exclusive shopping streets with countless luxury boutiques and jewelry stores. Not only for shopaholics, the Bahnhofstrasse features numerous small side alleys which offer the ideal starting point for a stroll through the city’s Old Town. Here is where the Zurich of today meets the Zurich of years past. The historic town center resembles more of a charming village than a burgeoning metropolis. 2. Zurich’s local “mountain” What would Switzerland be without its picturesque mountains? Yes, even Zurich has its own mountain. At around 870 m (2850 ft) above sea level, the Üetliberg is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its spectacular panoramic views of the city, Lake Zurich, and the Alps, this is an especially popular spot in November when its summit lies atop the high fog that so often envelops Zurich at this time of year. 3. Viadukt in Zurich West Many are surprised to discover that Zurich also has an industrial past. Some of these places have since developed into hip neighborhoods with lively dining scenes. Perhaps the most popular and trendiest neighborhood is Zurich West. The major highlight of this area is the picturesque old railroad viaduct, where visitors can admire contemporary art, embark on a shopping spree for fashion by local designers, head out for dinner and drinks, and enjoy the informal vibe of this area. At the foot of the Swiss Alps, Zurich perfec

Client’s review: Philippe Mayer

Client’s review: Philippe Mayer Le Bijou apartments have received accolades from various clients, including the prestigious Les Ambassadeurs hotel, which chose Le Bijou for its advertisement campaign. “When I entered the apartment, I only could say wow.” – Philippe Mayer, a representative of Les Ambassadeurs This statement speaks volumes about the quality of Le Bijou's apartments and the experience we provide to our guests. The apartments were designed with meticulous attention to detail and offer a luxurious alternative for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every aspect of our service, from high-end amenities to personalized concierge service. As a result, we have created an unparalleled experience for our guests, making Le Bijou a top choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave them speechless. Visit invest.lebijou.com/presentations/ and register to experience Le Bijou yourself during our live or online apartment viewing.