Swiss stocks - Factors to watch on Sept 8

ZURICH, Sept 8 (Reuters) - Swiss shares were set to open higher on Monday following a surge in Asian stocks after Washington bailed out Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to prop up the U.S. housing market.

The Swiss blue-chip index SMI.SSMI was indicated to rise 24 points to 7,001 points, according to data provided by bank Clariden Leu.CLPRE

The following are some of the main factors expected to affect Swiss stocks on Monday:

SWISS RE (RUKN.VX: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz)

Swiss Re said on Monday it would focus on disciplined underwriting and that preserving its margin was its main priority.

Reinsurance players from around the world are gathering in Monte Carlo to kick off crucial pricing discussions with their insurance clients.

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CIBA (CIBN.VX: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz)

Activist shareholders are pressing for the replacement of Armin Meyer as chairman, the Financial Times reports.

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CREDIT SUISSE (CSGN.VX: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz)

A former Credit Suisse broker pleaded not guilty on Friday to an indictment accusing him of fraud in unauthorized dealings of auction-rate debt, securities that are the focus of an industrywide probe.

For related news, click on [CSGN.VX]  Continued...