Stories from Switzerland

The Lénarts Foundation awarded the 2026 Lénarts Prize for translational biomedical research. The system is designed for use on patients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries. The research focuses on improving care for individuals suffering from mild traumatic brain injuries who do not require intensive hospital care. Previously, management for these specific cases was limited, according to the report. Elena Bernato discussed the lack of established tools for improving spatial navigation in patients. She noted that current compensation strategies used by patients are often ineffective for full recovery. The research involves using simulators and electrodes connected to boxes to provide stimulation to patients. Patients use the equipment in a standard room alongside a computer.

Centrist Maxime Paquier was designated as the new mayor of Bulle during the first meeting of the Communal Council. The appointment followed the elections held on March 8. Paquier succeeds Jacques Moran of the PLR, who held the position for 10 years.

The asset management company Südostbahn reported an annual profit of 5.3 million Swiss francs. The company attributed this figure to a special effect involving land transfers. The report was issued by the SOB.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has identified emperor penguins as an endangered species.

UBS experienced an influx of 37 billion francs into its funds, according to reports.

These barriers risk discouraging research and development investments. The industry seeks environments where investments in vaccine production for rare diseases can achieve returns.

UBS expects to complete its three billion dollar share buyback program by the time it releases its second quarter results. The bank's stock rose 4 percent on the stock exchange this morning. The announcement was reported by RTS La 1ere. The report covers the initial months of the current year. UBS plans to conduct 3 billion dollars in share buybacks despite anticipated tightening of capital requirements by the Federal Council before the second quarter results. UBS reported an 80 percent increase in net profit for the first three months of the year compared to the first quarter of 2025. Swiss banking giant BES recorded profits of 2,442 million euros during the first quarter. BES currently identifies as a leader in financing for the Banco de Fomento. UBS reported a pre-tax profit of $3.9 billion, representing a 54 percent increase year on year.

UBS confirmed its intention to return more cash to shareholders this year. This follows a quarter where net income surged to over $3 billion. The bank has already planned $3 billion in buybacks.

Swiss authorities have completed approximately 90 percent of a planned license plate exchange. The Office des véhicules in Delémont reported that 4,260 out of 4,730 plates have been processed. The deadline for free exchanges is this coming Thursday.

UBS is continuing planned job cuts following its emergency takeover of Credit Suisse approximately three years ago. The bank currently employs around 102,000 full-time positions globally. This is a decrease from nearly 107,000 employees reported one year ago.