How do you stand firm when everything is uncertain?

Tariffs, no tariffs—and suddenly tariffs again. The spring with a new president in the world’s most powerful trading nation has been turbulent, to say the least. First a series of tariffs were introduced, then quickly paused, and before anyone had time to react, tariffs were set at 15% on all goods from the EU. That’s better than for many other countries, but far from something consumers won’t notice.

The policy rate’s development during 2024 and 2025 has, by contrast, been welcome for Swedish households—almost a halving in just one year. There is now speculation about further cuts. But how can you, as a consumer, actually feel secure in a time marked by uncertainty?

For many, housing is the largest expense, whether you own or rent. The question then becomes: how should you think about your mortgage if you want to be well prepared for tougher times? That question comes up with every home purchase, yet few reflect on what actually matters most, even though it’s an individual decision.

Variable or fixed-rate loan—what’s really best? Some advocate for the lowest possible interest rate, others value the peace of mind that comes from avoiding uncertainty. There’s no right answer—it depends on each individual’s situation and is always a personal decision. Those who chase the lowest rate and aren’t worried about potential increases tend to choose a variable-rate loan. Those who are more price-sensitive and want to avoid unforeseen cost increases often lean toward fixed-rate loans.

Regardless of the path you choose, one thing holds: planning creates security. The most important thing is to always stay up to date on your options as a consumer. By regularly reviewing your finances and consulting your bank, you can ensure all the cards are on the table— and thereby make the most well-informed decisions possible for your personal finances.