Trust where the parties do not yet know each other
Many business relationships today are formed over long distances. Buyers and sellers often hardly know each other, and one side has to perform first. This is where an escrow service comes in: the buyer pays us instead of paying the seller directly. The seller knows that the money is available and delivers. As soon as delivery is confirmed, we pass on the payment.
This way, neither party bears the risk of performing first alone. We ensure careful, traceable handling and keep both parties transparently informed.
How it works
Agreement
Deposit
Delivery
Payout
The process also works the other way round: on request, we receive the goods or documents and release them only once payment has reached the seller.
Typical applications
Trading goods and vehicles
Purchase of vehicles, machinery, watches or trade goods, especially between parties who do not know each other.
Company transactions
Purchase or sale of companies and participations where part of the purchase price is held until completion.
Pledges
We receive pledges and keep them until they are redeemed or properly realised.
Cryptocurrencies
If required, we also support transactions involving cryptocurrencies.
Good to know
- Minimum amount: we handle transactions from CHF 5,000. For smaller amounts, effort and benefit are not in reasonable proportion.
- Costs: fees depend on the type and scope of the transaction. You receive a quote in advance. The fee is deducted from the deposited amount; for valuables, it is payable in advance. For pledges, monthly safekeeping costs are charged in addition.
- Escrow agreement: every transaction is governed by a written escrow agreement. For recurring transactions over a longer period, a joint framework agreement is sufficient.
- Neutrality: we act as an independent third party and do not conduct contract negotiations between buyer and seller.
- Due diligence under Swiss law: we comply with the due diligence obligations of the Swiss Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA/GwG). Before every transaction, we identify both parties and clarify the origin of the funds.
Frequently asked questions
What is an escrow service?
With an escrow service, one party deposits money or assets with a neutral third party. The third party releases the assets only once the previously agreed conditions have been met, for example when the goods have reached the buyer.
From what amount is an escrow service worthwhile?
We handle transactions from CHF 5,000. An escrow service is particularly useful for larger amounts and when the parties do not yet know each other.
What happens if delivery is not made as agreed?
The deposited amount is only released once the agreed conditions have been met. How to proceed in the event of a dispute is set out in advance in the escrow agreement.
Where are my valuables kept during the escrow?
We keep valuables in a safe-deposit box within a larger safe. For security reasons, this safe is not located in our offices but at an external location. The valuables remain there until the agreed completion of the transaction.
What does safekeeping cost?
The costs depend on the size of the object and the duration of safekeeping. We will be happy to prepare a quote without obligation in advance.
What information do you need for an enquiry?
For an initial assessment, details of the type of transaction, the approximate amount and the parties involved are sufficient. For the actual handling, we then need identity documents of both parties and the documents relating to the transaction.