Canton of Bern writes a “red zero” in the 2023 annual accounts
Published: Tuesday, Mar 26th 2024, 15:10
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The canton of Bern posted a deficit of 13 million francs last year. Finance Director Astrid Bärtschi (center) described the result as a "red zero" against the backdrop of the Canton of Bern's twelve billion franc budget.
Overall, Bärtschi was satisfied with the annual accounts. This was because the canton had been able to almost completely compensate for the missing profit distribution of the National Bank amounting to CHF 322 million.
For example, lower state contributions for premium reductions and supplementary benefits, higher tax revenue, in particular from property gains tax, higher dividends on the canton's investments and relief measures would have had a positive impact.
At CHF 480 million, the canton's net investments in 2023 were significantly higher than in previous years. Bärtschi explained that the state was not able to pay for all investments out of its own pocket. This resulted in a negative financing balance of CHF 163 million.
Overall, public debt has decreased since 2021. The interest expense of CHF 58.8 million remains at a low level, said Bärtschi.
Pressure remains high
The pressure on Bern's finances is likely to remain high in the coming years. On the one hand, the National Bank's profits are likely to continue to be lost, and on the other, a tax cut will cost around CHF 500 million per year. According to Bärtschi, the need for investment will also remain high in the coming years.
According to Bärtschi, there are signs of "a positive development" in the national financial equalization with regard to the income situation. Forecasts indicate a below-average increase in the canton's resource potential. This could mean higher equalization payments for Bern.
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