Consultation response: Important for the Swedish economy to have better data on households’ assets and liabilities
News, Consultation responses It is in Sweden’s best interests that the Riksbank and other economic policy makers can base their decisions on the best possible information and thereby carry out their tasks in the best way possible. The Riksbank therefore supports the Inquiry’s proposal regarding new statistics on households’ assets and liabilities and considers it essential that the proposal be acted on as soon as possible.
The Riksbank wishes to emphasise the importance of the Riksbank and other authorities receiving microdata as described in the Inquiry's report. Access to reliable statistics is essential to enable important analyses and forecasts and to implement effective economic policy measures. The Riksbank also welcomes the proposed amendments to the Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act and the Sveriges Riksbank Act aimed at ensuring security protection of the information at the Riksbank.
“More detailed information on households’ assets and liabilities would significantly improve the opportunities for in-depth analysis. It would thus strengthen the Riksbank’s capacity to conduct well-balanced monetary policy and safeguard financial stability, which promotes economic development,” says Governor Erik Thedéen.
Data on assets and liabilities are not unusual in an international perspective. Our neighbouring countries Denmark and Norway have similar registers to the one proposed. The International Monetary Fund and other international organisations have also pointed out that Swedish decision-makers need this type of information.