The Saron mortgage or the Saron interest rate

What is the Saron interest rate?

A Saron mortgage is an innovative financing option based on the SARON (Swiss Average Rate Overnight), a new reference interest rate in Switzerland. In contrast to the traditional LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate), the Saron reflects actual transactions in the overnight money market. The Saron interest rate therefore provides a transparent and objective basis for calculating mortgage interest rates. This type of mortgage allows homeowners to benefit from the advantages of the Saron, which is generally more stable and representative of actual market performance. The experts at MoneyPark are here to help you understand the pros and cons of a Saron mortgage and make the best possible decision for your real estate financing needs.

How the Saron interest rate currently works

How a Saron mortgage works is based on the Swiss Average Rate Overnight (SARON), a new reference interest rate in Switzerland. Here's how it works:

• Calculation of interest rates: The Saron is determined on the basis of actual transactions in the overnight money market. Mortgage interest rates are set on the basis of this reference interest rate. As the Saron is recalculated daily, the interest rates reflect current market conditions.
• Adjustment of interest rates: Unlike fixed interest rates, the interest rates on a Saron mortgage change regularly. As a rule, the adjustment is made quarterly or semi-annually, depending on the agreed time frame. The interest rate adjustments are made according to the current Saron trend.
• Stability and transparency: Because the Saron is based on actual transactions, the Saron mortgage provides a transparent and objective basis for calculating interest rates. The stability of the Saron results in less volatility in interest rates compared to other reference rates.
• Cost control: The regular interest rate adjustments allow homeowners to benefit from favorable market conditions. This can lead to cost savings in the long term, especially if the Saron is lower compared to other reference interest rates.
• Flexibility: The Saron interest rate offers a degree of flexibility as it adjusts to current market conditions. This allows homeowners to benefit from favorable interest rates when general interest rates are low.

Current MoneyPark rates

Comparison with a conventional fixed-rate mortgage

A comparison between a Saron mortgage and a conventional fixed-rate mortgage shows clear differences that should be taken into account when choosing the right financing option:

Saron interest rate:

• Variable interest rates:The interest rates on a Saron mortgage change regularly, based on the Saron interest rate. This allows for potentially lower interest rates when market conditions are favorable, but also higher interest rates when market rates rise.
• Transparency and objectivity: Interest rates are calculated based on actual transactions in the overnight money market, resulting in transparency and objective interest rate adjustments.
• Market-driven fluctuations: Interest rate fluctuations can lead to variable monthly payments depending on market developments, which requires flexibility.

Fixed-rate mortgage:

• Constant interest rates: With a fixed-rate mortgage, interest rates remain constant for a fixed period of time, regardless of market fluctuations. This allows for predictable monthly payments.
• Planning security: As interest rates do not vary, a fixed-rate mortgage offers greater planning security as the monthly payments remain constant.
• Possible higher initial interest rate: As interest rates do not vary, a fixed-rate mortgage offers greater planning security as the monthly payments remain constant.

The choice between a Saron mortgage and a fixed-rate mortgage depends on individual preferences, risk appetite and market forecasts. Expert advice, such as that offered by MoneyPark, can help you weigh up the pros and cons of both options and make the best decision for your financial situation.

What is the difference between Saron and Libor?

The Libor (London Interbank Offered Rate) is the rate at which banks lend money to each other. There are no actual transactions behind the Libor, only agreements that the banks make with each other. This lack of transparency is one of the reasons why the Libor is considered susceptible to manipulation. The Saron (Swiss Average Rate Overnight), on the other hand, is based on actual transactions and is therefore much more transparent. Looking at the Libor and Saron interest rates, it can be seen that they have hardly deviated from each other in the past.

How are 3-month and 6-month terms determined for Saron?

The Saron interest rate is determined for one day at a time, which raises the question of how the interest rate should be calculated for 3- and 6-month terms. As things stand, the financial institutions are to decide how to proceed. It is also up to the banks to decide whether to use the past or the next three months to calculate the interest rate. With the former, the customer is aware of how much interest they will pay, whereas with the latter, this is not the case.

5 important points about the Saron mortgage

1. 1. LIBOR replacement: The Saron mortgage is a reaction to the replacement of the LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) by the Saron (Swiss Average Rate Overnight). The Saron is the new reference interest rate for the Swiss franc, which is based on actual transactions in the overnight money market.
2. 2. Stable and transparent interest rate: In contrast to LIBOR, which was based on estimates by banks, the Saron is an objective and transparent interest rate derived from real transactions. This is intended to improve the reliability and stability of mortgage interest rates.
3. 3. Adjustment of existing mortgages: For mortgage holders who already have a LIBOR-based mortgage, the transition to the Saron rate will be gradual. This could have an impact on interest rates and the overall cost of the mortgage. An adjustment to the existing mortgage may be necessary to reflect the new reference rate.
4. 4. Flexible financing options: With the introduction of the Saron mortgage, banks and financial institutions may offer a wider range of financing options to meet customers' needs. It is advisable to find out about the different mortgage types and terms available.
5. 5. Expert advice: Given the complexities and implications of moving from LIBOR to the Saron rate, it is advisable to seek advice from mortgage experts. Expert advisers can help you understand the implications for your existing or future mortgage and make the best decisions for your financial situation.

These points highlight the importance of the Saron mortgage and the impact it is having on the mortgage market in Switzerland. It is important to be aware of the changes and take the right steps to make the best mortgage decisions.

Is the Saron interest rate right for me?

This change has a significant impact on mortgage rates and financing options in Switzerland. Our team of experts is on hand to inform you about the benefits and risks of the transition and to help you adjust your existing mortgage or choose a new financing option. We'll make sure you can make informed decisions that fit your financial goals. Rely on MoneyPark to guide you through this important change in the mortgage market and help you find the best solutions for your individual needs. Whether it's a Saron or fixed-rate mortgage.

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