hushållsskulder

hushållsskulder, or household debt, refers to the total amount of liabilities that households hold in a given economy. These debts typically include mortgages, consumer loans, credit card balances, and other personal obligations. The concept is key in macroeconomic analysis because it affects household consumption, savings behaviour, and overall economic stability.

In Sweden, the term “hushållsskulder” is frequently reported by Statistics Sweden and the Swedish Central Bank. Over the last decade, Swedish households have experienced a notable increase in debt levels, largely driven by rising house prices and a high proportion of mortgage borrowing. By 2023, the average debt per household had climbed to about 1.1 million kronor, surpassing the average household income by 30%. This trend has prompted discussions about the sustainability of Swedish debt, with critics arguing that high leverage may constrain future consumption growth and increase vulnerability to interest rate hikes.

Regulatory responses have included stricter lending criteria for mortgages, higher capital requirements for banks, and public fiscal measures aimed at boosting household income. Central authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between credit expansion and financial stability. Monitoring of debt-to-income ratios, debt service coverage, and credit market conditions remains central to Swedish monetary policy.

See also: Swedish Central Bank, Statistics Sweden, household consumption, mortgage market.