Sven-Olov Daunfeldt

Report: Sweden’s population could shrink by four million by 2100

Low migration, fewer births and more elderly people could shrink Sweden's population by four million by 2100, according to a new report commissioned by the government.

Social Democrats Propose Increased Child Allowance and End to Qualifying Day

The S leader Magdalena Andersson proposes an increase in both child and study allowances, an increased housing allowance for families with children and the abolition of the deduction day. Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (The Moderate Party) criticizes the proposals and warns that they would result in lower growth and increased sickness absence rates.

Criticism Over No Increase in Sweden's Child Allowance

The Social Democrats' economic policy spokesperson Mikael Damberg (S) is deeply critical that the government does not raise the child allowance. It is a painful message for poor families with children and the families with children who are struggling with the economy.

Employers ahead of the wage movement: Darker outlook

Industry's order books are weak. The situation is worse than usual. Ahead of the wage movement, employers are warning that companies' competitiveness must be protected.

Companies Expect More Layoffs to Come

Unions and Employers: Cut Interest Rates Faster

Unemployment is increasing and the economy is weak – unions and employers are pressing the Central Bank to lower the interest rate faster. "Time to take a bigger step and lower by 50 points", says Sacos chief economist Håkan Regnér.

Larger investments than expected – these are the needs

A welcome budget message that is applauded from several directions. Now the big question is what the money will be spent on. The Swedish Trade Union Confederation (LO) wants, among other things, to see increased child benefits, while the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise (Svenskt näringsliv) is calling for tax reforms.

The demand on Svantesson: "Get the workshop going"

Both LO and Svenskt Näringsliv are now putting pressure on Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (M) to present an expansive autumn budget. It's time to climb out of the sandbox and get the workshop going again, says LO Chairman Johan Lindholm.