Switzerland’s KOF Economic Barometer climbed to 97.9 in April 2026, up from a nine-month low of 95.6 in March and exceeding market expectations of 95.9, driven by positive developments in manufacturing, other services, and private consumption, though the hospitality sector weakened. Indicator bundles for foreign demand, financial and insurance services, and construction remained largely unchanged. Within the producing industry (manufacturing and construction), most sub-indicators pointed to positive trends, particularly in stockpiling of intermediate goods, production barriers, and capacity utilization. However, sub-indicators for the general business situation and employment prospects faced pressure. In manufacturing, the wood, glass, stone, and earth segment, as well as food and beverage producers, saw setbacks, while the metal, paper and printing, and electrical industries showed a more favorable outlook.