UBS and five major Swiss banks have partnered to test a Swiss franc based crypto stablecoin through a new sandbox initiative scheduled for 2026. The project brings together PostFinance, Sygnum, Raiffeisen, Zürcher Kantonalbank, Banque Cantonale Vaudoise, and Swiss Stablecoin AG to explore blockchain-powered payment systems within Switzerland.
Swiss Franc Stablecoin Sandbox to Test Digital Payment Use Cases
The initiative will allow participating banks to test selected Swiss franc stablecoin use cases in what partners described as a secure digital live environment. The sandbox aims to build practical experience in handling digital payment methods and evaluating how blockchain-based financial tools function in real-world settings.
Swiss Stablecoin AG will provide the issuance infrastructure for the project. Organizers confirmed the sandbox will remain open to additional banks, companies, and institutions interested in participating.
Swiss Banks Expand Blockchain Payment Experiments
This project follows earlier blockchain testing by Swiss lenders. In September 2025, UBS, PostFinance, and Sygnum Bank completed a deposit token proof of concept under the Swiss Bankers Association. The trial tested legally binding interbank payments on a public blockchain and included programmable payment and escrow-style transactions involving tokenized real-world assets.
Switzerland Strengthens Stablecoin and Tokenization Efforts
The latest sandbox also reflects ongoing experimentation with Swiss franc-based digital tokens. Bitcoin Suisse AG previously issued the CryptoFranc (XCHF) stablecoin but discontinued issuance and redemption on Aug. 16, 2024.
UBS remains Switzerland’s largest bank with about $1.7 trillion in total assets, followed by Raiffeisen Schweiz ($353 billion), Zürcher Kantonalbank ($241 billion), and PostFinance ($121 billion). The new initiative signals continued momentum among Swiss institutions to integrate blockchain into traditional banking infrastructure.
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