Sweden’s consumer confidence index rose to 98 in August 2026 from a revised 97.1 in July, according to the National Institute of Economic Research, marking a second consecutive monthly increase after a dip in June and the highest reading since November 2024. The index remains below its historical average of 100, indicating that households are still pessimistic about the economic outlook. Views of the Swedish economy improved, with the assessment of the past 12 months rising to -15 from -19 and expectations for the coming year increasing to -3 from -8. Assessments of personal finances were unchanged at 4 for the past year and 9 for the next 12 months. The latest account says households’ views on their finances and the economy improved slightly, while unemployment expectations were largely unchanged; earlier detailed data showed expected unemployment falling to 17 from 22 and perceived job-loss risk improving to -1 from -2. Saving intentions held at 49, while plans to purchase capital goods improved to -12 from -13. Estimated current inflation eased to 9.2% from 9.3%, and expected inflation declined to 6.8% from 6.9%. The modest rise offers some reassurance that Sweden is not entering a deeper downturn, but economists say it is too small to mark a decisive recovery in sentiment. High borrowing costs, mortgage expenses, a cooled housing market and slightly higher unemployment continue to constrain household purchasing power and discretionary spending. A sustained improvement could support private consumption and economic growth in the second half of 2026, although the outlook remains fragile and uncertain.