Reverse convertibles are among the most popular risk-optimization products in Switzerland and are suited above all for investors who are anticipating a sideways or slightly upward trending market.

The economic nuts and bolts of reverse convertibles correspond precisely to those of discount certificates, the only difference being that with a reverse convertible you earn income during its entire term in the form of coupon payments. While those returns are considerably higher than the yields to be had in the bond market, reverse convertibles carry a higher risk than bonds because repayment of the principle amount is not guaranteed. Here’s an overview of the most important differentiating factors: