Appeals trial: Risky investments explain ex-banker Vincenz's cash needs, defense claims

In the Zurich Supreme Court, the defense for Beat Stocker, former executive of Raiffeisen subsidiary Aduno, presented its case in the appeals trial of ex-banker Pierin Vincenz. Stocker, considered the main co-defendant, received a four-year prison sentence in the initial trial, three months longer than Vincenz.

Both Vincenz and Stocker were found guilty of fraud, passive private corruption, and disloyal management by a lower court. The defense is now arguing that Vincenz's involvement in risky investments explains his financial needs, attempting to shift the narrative in the appeals process.

Vincenz, who sat in the front row, was not directly addressed during this part of the hearing. The court is examining the nature of business relationships and alleged hidden stakes in firms, questioning the financial dealings that led to the charges against the former star banker and his associates.