Latest news with #Helvetia
Daily Mirror
09-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful UK beach so well rated by tourists it keeps being named world best
The area is part of the UK's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has previously surpassed ratings for top locations in Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mediterranean Located on the southwestern tip of the Gower Peninsula, Rhossili Bay is not only one of the finest beaches in the UK, but also the world. Stretching for three miles, its vast expanses of golden sand, dramatic cliffs and unbroken views make it a must-see seaside stopover. Rhossili Bay's setting is breathtaking, with the beach curving in a gentle arc, backed by sand dunes and overlooked by the rugged Rhossili Down — the highest point on the peninsula. The area is part of the UK's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring its untamed charm will be preserved for generations to come. At one end of the bay lies the striking tidal island of Worm's Head, accessible by foot at low tide, offering adventurous visitors the chance to spot grey seals and enjoy panoramic sea views. The bay is steeped in history, with visible remnants such as the wreck of the Helvetia, a ship that ran aground in 1887, still present on its sands. Access to the beach involves a walk down a steep path, but visitors are rewarded with spectacular views and a sense of tranquillity that makes the effort worthwhile. Facilities include a National Trust visitor centre and café, as well as handy accommodation, including the much-loved Old Rectory cottage. Dogs are welcome year-round, making it a popular spot for pet owners. The surrounding area is rich in archaeological features, including Neolithic burial chambers, Bronze Age cairns and Iron Age forts, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Rhossili Bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts — surfers are drawn to its Atlantic swells, while walkers and ramblers enjoy the network of scenic trails along the surrounding cliffsides. Paragliders are often seen soaring above the bay, taking advantage of the updrafts from Rhossili Down. Despite its well-deserved popularity, the sheer size of the beach ensures it rarely feels crowded, even at peak times. Rhossili Bay's reputation is not just local — it has quite rightly received international acclaim. In 2013, TripAdvisor crowned it the UK's best beach and the third best in Europe, as well as ranking it among the top 10 beaches in the world, even surpassing celebrated locations in Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mediterranean. It is also a remarkable spot for witnessing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis — a rare phenomenon in Wales. Although more commonly seen further north in places like Scotland, strong solar activity combined with clear, dark skies can make the lights visible from Rhossili Bay, especially during the autumn and winter months when nights are longest and skies are clearest — making the majestic beauty of the area truly magical. The bay has also featured widely in popular culture, including the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, as well as episodes of Doctor Who and Torchwood, further boosting its profile. Rhossili Bay's unmissable combination of natural splendour, historical intrigue and outdoor adventure have firmly established it as one of the greatest beaches in the world.
Time Business News
06-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Why You Should Purchase Gold Vreneli Coins: A Smart Investment for Collectors and Investors
In today's uncertain global economy, investors are constantly on the lookout for assets that combine long-term value with resilience. Gold has maintained its status as one of the most reliable hedges against inflation, currency depreciation, and economic instability. While bullion bars are a popular option, many seasoned investors and collectors find greater value in historical gold coins. A standout among them is the Swiss Vreneli. For those seeking an elegant blend of artistry, history, and financial security, it's a wise decision to purchase gold Vreneli coins. A Glimpse Into Swiss Legacy Minted between 1897 and 1949, the Swiss Vreneli gold coin represents one of the most iconic issues in European numismatic history. These coins were produced in a country long known for its political neutrality and financial stability. Depicting the female figure Helvetia on the obverse, they reflect Switzerland's national identity and resilience. For anyone looking to tie their investment to a strong historical narrative, the choice to purchase gold Vreneli coins is both culturally and financially sound. Why the Vreneli Coin Stands Out The Vreneli's design and backstory contribute significantly to its investment appeal. Unlike modern bullion, which often focuses solely on metal content, Vreneli coins also offer collectors an artistic and historical dimension. The engraving, the symbolism, and the legacy tied to each coin all increase its value. When compared with similar coins like the British Sovereign or French Napoleon, the Vreneli holds its own as a well-rounded and distinguished choice. Trusted Quality and Composition Each Vreneli coin contains 5.8 grams of gold with a purity of 90%, or 21.6 karats. The remaining 10% is composed of copper, which improves durability while still maintaining high gold content. This blend ensures longevity, making the coin suitable for both display and storage. Many investors who purchase gold Vreneli coins appreciate their lasting condition, especially when handling or transferring their assets. International Recognition and Liquidity Vreneli coins are recognized and respected across global precious metals markets. Dealers, collectors, and institutional investors are familiar with their weight, composition, and appearance. This wide recognition allows investors to easily buy, sell, or trade them without encountering authenticity issues. Their liquidity is a key reason why many choose to purchase gold Vreneli coins for an agile and responsive portfolio. The Royal Mint Is Not the Only Source of Interesting Gold Coins While the British Sovereign is a favorite among collectors and investors alike, it's worth exploring other global offerings. The Royal Mint is not the only source of interesting gold coins; coins from other countries can also be interesting, and the Swiss Vreneli exemplifies this truth. Featuring unique designs and historical context, coins like the Vreneli broaden the scope of your gold collection while enhancing your investment diversity. Ideal for Entry-Level and Seasoned Investors Vreneli coins are an excellent option for both beginners and experienced gold investors. Their size and price point make them more accessible than larger gold bars or high-denomination coins. For those just starting, choosing to purchase gold Vreneli coins is an affordable way to enter the precious metals market without compromising on quality or authenticity. Collector Demand and Rarity Since the production of Vreneli coins ceased decades ago, their availability is limited. Some years and mint conditions are more rare and therefore more valuable. Collectors often seek these coins for their scarcity and the potential for future appreciation. When you purchase gold Vreneli coins, you're acquiring an asset whose rarity could offer both financial and numismatic growth. Simple Storage, Strong Security One of the key advantages of coins over bullion bars is their portability. Vreneli coins are compact and easy to store securely, whether in a safe deposit box or a home vault. This convenience appeals to individual investors who want personal access to their wealth. By choosing to purchase gold Vreneli coins, you're investing in a format that's both secure and manageable. Generational Wealth and Gifting Gold coins have always held sentimental and monetary value when passed down through generations. The beauty and symbolism of the Vreneli make it a perfect heirloom for family legacy planning. Those who purchase gold Vreneli coins often do so with the intention of leaving behind assets that are easy to transfer, appreciate in value, and carry emotional significance. Gold as a Modern Inflation Hedge As inflation erodes purchasing power and central banks continue to manipulate fiat currency values, gold offers an anchor of stability. Vreneli coins combine this economic advantage with cultural depth. For investors who want more than just raw metal value, deciding to purchase gold Vreneli coins is a way to secure your assets with elegance and historical relevance. Final Thoughts: A Globally Minded Investment In the world of precious metals, it's easy to stick with what's familiar. However, The Royal Mint is not the only source of interesting gold coins; coins from other countries can also be interesting, providing unique opportunities for diversification and growth. The Swiss Vreneli, with its blend of quality, history, and global recognition, offers exactly that. Whether you're a collector or a serious investor, choosing to purchase gold Vreneli coins is a move toward timeless, international value. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Mint
26-04-2025
- Business
- Mint
Switzerland Inc. Fends Off Activist Cevian With Insurance Merger
(Bloomberg) -- When Cevian Capital boosted its stake in Swiss insurer Baloise Holding AG last year, insurance firms across Europe got ready for the activist investor to go straight for its usual playbook. Companies including Axa SA and Allianz SE began to study whether Cevian's engagement could put the Basel-based company, or some of its divisions, into play as takeover targets. Cevian has a track record of triggering often dramatic strategic change, at times even breaking up longstanding businesses. At Baloise, where it had a stake of about 9%, it pushed management to focus on its core Swiss business and sell other assets, such as a regional lender and a struggling German unit, Bloomberg News has reported. In the end, the Swiss establishment found its own solution to keep foreign buyers at bay, and get Cevian off their backs. First, Basel-based Baloise announced that it had agreed on a rare 'merger of equals' with Helvetia Holding AG, a similarly-sized insurer a 2 1/2-hour drive away in the city of St. Gallen. Bankers and investors speculated that a counter bid could emerge, especially if Cevian was to reject the transaction when it's put to shareholders. Then Patria, a little-known cooperative that is also Helvetia's biggest shareholder, approached Cevian and bought its stake. That sale, announced Friday, lowers the likelihood of any disruption to the deal, even if some question the benefits of a combination. 'I struggle to see the financial logic of this deal,' Kevin Ryan, a Bloomberg Intelligence analyst, said when the tie-up was first announced. 'It appears to be a defensive move against activist investor Cevian with making as little changes as possible.' The combination of the firms will create Switzerland's second-largest insurance company. Patria will hold roughly 22% in the combined entity, analysts at BNP Paribas SA estimate. The cooperative represents the interests of Helvetia's policy holders and its statutes say it protects the interest of Helvetia's economic independence. Patria 'has made it clear that it supports the transaction,' a spokesperson for Baloise said. 'We are pleased that Helvetia's largest shareholder is convinced of the strategic fit and supports the merger of equals.' Helvetia and Cevian declined to comment. 'We very strongly believe in the merger between Helvetia and Baloise,' Patria said in a statement. 'By seizing the opportunity to acquire the Cevian package in Baloise, we are maintaining our position as a reliable principal shareholder.' While Cevian didn't succeed in getting Baloise to streamline its operations, it still walks away with a gain on its investment, which it didn't disclose. Baloise shares closed at 184.20 francs in Zurich on Friday, compared with around 130 francs when reports surfaced in 2023 that Cevian was considering an investment. The sale to Patria is 'a neat conclusion for Cevian,' said Iain Pearce, an analyst at BNP. Based on an estimated 140 francs ($169) paid on average per Baloise share, the investment firm will make a 'tidy profit,' he said. Cevian's investment in Baloise stretches back to late 2023. Last year, it helped to abolish a rule at the insurer that capped any investor's voting rights at 2%, regardless of the amount of stock they owned. The removal of the curb made it easier to push for changes. 'Cevian's engagement was the catalyst for change at Baloise,' said Jens Tischendorf, an ex-partner at Cevian and co-founder of Active Value Partners. Cevian's relationship with Baloise Chairman Thomas von Planta subsequently soured, according to people familiar with the matter. Von Planta will now oversee the strategy of the combined firm, which will be named Helvetia Baloise. Helvetia Chief Executive Officer Fabian Rupprecht will run the day to day business as CEO. The all-share deal values Baloise at about 8.4 billion Swiss francs based on the firms' latest closing prices. Bloomberg reported earlier that the companies had been exploring a possible combination. Cevian has pushed through far more significant moves elsewhere. At RSA Insurance Group Plc, it took a stake and eventually saw the company's sprawling operations broken up, with Intact Financial Corp. and Tryg A/S buying different pieces. The strategy has made billionaires of Cevian's founders Lars Foerberg, who lives in Switzerland, and Christer Gardell. Their firm also took a stake in UBS Group AG after the government-brokered takeover of Credit Suisse. More stories like this are available on First Published: 26 Apr 2025, 11:51 AM IST
Reuters
25-04-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Baloise says Patria acquires 9.35% stake from Cevian ahead of merger with Helvetia
April 25 (Reuters) - Baloise (BALN.S), opens new tab on Friday said that Patria Genossenschaft had acquired a 9.45% stake in the Swiss insurer, which this week announced plans to merge with competitor Helvetia. Patria is Helvetia's main shareholder. The shares were acquired from Cevian Capital, Baloise said, an activist investor which up until now had not commented on the planned merger. The acquisition was unconditional and the parties agreed not to disclose the purchase price, Baloise added. Patria will be able to vote with the newly acquired shares at the Extraordinary General Meeting of Baloise to be held on May 23 regarding the merger with Helvetia, Baloise said, adding it would not nominate a seventh board member in connection with the merger with Helvetia. As a result, the board of the combined company Helvetia Baloise Holding Ltd will have a total of 13 instead of 14 members after the merger, Baloise said.
Yahoo
24-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Swiss insurers Helvetia and Baloise plan merger
Swiss composite insurance groups Helvetia and Baloise have revealed plans to merge, with the move aimed at 'expanding the companies' capabilities and enlarging their individual distribution networks'. The merged entity will operate under the name Helvetia Baloise Holding, with headquarters in Basel and a presence in St. Gallen, the current location of Helvetia's headquarters. Under this 'merger of equals', Baloise shareholders will receive 1.0119 new shares of Helvetia for each share held. Helvetia Baloise will become the second-largest insurance group in Switzerland with business volumes of SFr20bn upon deal completion, the joint release stated. It will operate in around eight countries and feature a global specialty business. The future structure will see a combined workforce of more than 22,000 and a total of SFr8.6bn in gross premiums in the life business and SFr11.5bn in the non-life business. The Helvetia Baloise Holding will be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, with the ticker symbol 'HBAN'. The deal awaits regulatory and anti-trust approvals, with completion anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2025. Patria Genossenschaft, Helvetia's largest shareholder with 34.1% share capital, has approved the merger. The Board of Directors of the combined group will have 14 members, seven from each company. The executive board will include CEO Fabian Rupprecht from Helvetia and deputy CEO and head of integration Michael Müller from Baloise. Rupprecht said: "We are very excited about this amazing opportunity to build a European insurance leader with strong Swiss roots. Helvetia Baloise will become the largest employer in the Swiss insurance industry with the greatest possible proximity to customers. This, coupled with the combined expertise of two players that each have been successful for over 160 years, are key factors for future success and sustainable value generation for all our stakeholders." Müller stated: "The complementary strengths of the two companies make Helvetia Baloise a relevant insurance and finance partner with Swiss roots and a strong market presence in Europe. The merger adds gravity in our markets and unlocks a new era and opportunities to deliver focused, yield-oriented growth to our shareholders." J.P. Morgan Securities is the exclusive financial advisor to Helvetia, while Morgan Stanley International is leading the advisory for Baloise with UBS also providing financial advice. Legal counsel for the companies is provided by Walder Wyss for Helvetia and Lenz & Staehelin for Baloise. "Swiss insurers Helvetia and Baloise plan merger " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
