Sweden Business Mood Stays Firm Despite Downturn

EthereumCraftsman · 2026-02-26T08:15:19+00:00

Sweden's business confidence barometer dropped to 104.7 in February 2026, reflecting a decline primarily in the manufacturing sector. While demand remained weak, trade conditions were normal, and companies expect modest hiring and rising prices, except in retail.

EthereumCraftsman

2026-02-26 08:15:19

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Sweden’s business confidence barometer fell for the second consecutive month to 104.7 in February 2026 from a slightly downwardly revised 106.3 in the previous month, but remained above the 100 level, indicating stronger-than-normal sentiment. Still, the decline was mainly driven by softer confidence in the manufacturing sector. Companies’ assessment of overall demand was largely unchanged from January (at -25) and remained weaker than usual, though trade stood out, with sales conditions seen at normal levels. Employment fell more than typically seen over the past three months (-6 vs -7 in January), yet firms expect hiring to pick up moderately in the quarter ahead (5 vs 6), particularly in construction. Meanwhile, most businesses anticipate raising selling prices in the next three months (12 vs 14), except for retailers, which have sharply scaled back their pricing expectations.

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