The Gnomes of Zurich

Fehrenbach traces the rise of the Swiss bankers and their relationship to the Swiss Confederation, from the 14th century right through to modern times. He delves into the meaning of Swiss banking secrecy, and the advantages of a numbered account, which he calls "both the most subtle and the most sophisticated status symbol in the modern world". He also exposes the exploitation of Swiss bank accounts by dictators and kings, film stars and playboys.