länet

Lånet is the definite form of the word lån in Swedish and Norwegian, used to denote the concept of a loan. In general, a loan is an agreement in which a lender provides money or another asset to a borrower with the expectation of repayment, usually on a defined schedule and often with interest. Loans may be secured by collateral or unsecured, and they can be issued by banks, credit unions, microfinance organizations, or private lenders. The borrower agrees to repay the principal plus any interest and fees over a set period, with penalties if terms are not met. In everyday language, lånet can also refer to the act of lending or borrowing or to the item loaned, depending on context.

Types of loans include consumer loans (personal loans), mortgage loans for real estate, student loans, auto loans, and business loans. The lending process typically requires documentation of income, credit history, and repayment capacity. Interest can be fixed or variable, and the total cost depends on the rate, term, and any additional charges. Repayment is usually organized through an amortization schedule that reduces the principal over time.

Regulation and consumer protection vary by country. In Nordic countries, the lending market is supervised by national financial authorities, and consumer protection laws govern disclosures, advertising, and fair lending practices. Common elements in many jurisdictions include the disclosure of the annual percentage rate (APR), written loan agreements, and, in some cases, cooling-off periods for certain consumer loans.