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20Sep2026

Saturday Reflection: Nostalgia and Progress 🚂✨

Personal views, not investment advice – see the full disclaimer below.

Nostalgia and Progress - A Scenic Journey to Lugano

I am back from a short trip to Lugano. 🚂 The city, which has always been a jewel of Switzerland, is an extra hour away from Zurich. This summer, an accident in the pride of our train infrastructure, the Gotthard Tunnel, caused significant damage, and while it’s being repaired, we are rerouted to the old scenic route. A bit of nostalgia, isn’t it? 🛤️

Speaking of Gotthard, it’s impossible not to mention Alfred Escher. Escher (1819–1882) was a prominent Swiss politician, business leader, and railway entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in the 19th century. His influence spanned various sectors, thanks to his involvement in the Swiss Northeastern Railway, the Federal Polytechnic School, Credit Suisse, Swiss Life Insurance and Pension Company, and the Gotthard Railway Company. 🏛️🚆

Escher is a classic example of how politically affiliated individuals in developed Western Europe rose to wealth. He even founded Credit Suisse, by today’s standards, as a PEP (Politically Exposed Person).

It really makes you wonder, doesn’t it? 🤔 Each region of our world has developed at its own unique pace, shaped by distinct histories, cultures, and challenges. Yet, in today’s global landscape, there’s a tendency to measure them all against the same yardstick. 📏🌏

Food for thought. I wish everyone a relaxing and insightful Saturday! 🍂📚

Source: LinkedIn

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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the vapa Swiss independent wealth management blog are solely my own and do not reflect those of any institutions or organisations with which I am affiliated. I lead an independent wealth manager in Switzerland, so I write about this industry as a participant in it, not as a neutral observer. These posts are intended to share personal insights and should not be interpreted as official statements or as investment advice. See the legal notice for details.

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