Swiss stock exchange operator SIX has recently announced plans to reduce its workforce by up to 150 jobs in 2025 as part of an efficiency drive. The decision comes in the context of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing efficiency and profitability amidst a competitive market landscape. The company is targeting mid-single-digit revenue growth by the end of 2027, with a significant rise in EBITDA from 28% in 2024 to over 40%.

In a bid to accelerate its growth strategy, SIX aims to optimize its business mix and streamline operations to achieve cost savings of over CHF120 million ($135 million) over the next three years. This cost-saving initiative may result in the reduction of approximately 150 positions across the organization by the end of 2025. However, natural turnover and early retirements are expected to partially mitigate the impact of these job cuts.

The workforce reduction is expected to affect all business areas and regions where SIX operates, including Switzerland. While specific details regarding the distribution of job losses across locations have not been disclosed, Switzerland is poised to witness a decrease in employment figures. As of the end of 2024, SIX employed around 4,430 individuals, with a significant portion based in Switzerland and Spain, following the acquisition of the Spanish stock exchange BME in 2020.

Despite a 4% increase in operating income to CHF1.59 billion in 2024, SIX faced challenges with a CHF167.7 million value adjustment related to its investment in Worldline, leading to a net profit of CHF38.7 million. This adjustment impacted the company’s EBIT results. Shareholders of SIX can expect a dividend increase of 10 centimes per share for 2024, reflecting the company’s commitment to shareholder value.

SIX, which is owned by approximately 120 financial institutions, including major stakeholder UBS, is navigating a complex financial landscape characterized by evolving market dynamics and regulatory requirements. The decision to streamline operations and reduce workforce underscores the company’s proactive approach to enhancing operational efficiency and sustaining long-term growth in the face of industry challenges.