Norwegian banks consider office mandates amid remote work debate

A growing trend of office mandates is emerging in the financial sector, with Norwegian banks such as DNB and Nordea considering or implementing reductions in remote work days. An NHO survey indicates that 40 percent of leaders with remote employees now desire less working from home, compared to 18 percent two years ago. Leaders cite concerns regarding weakened personal networks, diluted work culture, and employee loneliness.

However, research suggests that mandatory office returns may not be the optimal solution. A major study published in Nature by Stanford economist Nicholas Bloom found that hybrid workers—those working two days from home—experienced higher well-being and lower turnover rates without any loss in performance or promotion parity compared to full-time office workers.

In Norway, the debate has also extended to office design. Professor Arnstein Mykletun has challenged the efficacy of open-plan and activity-based workspaces, arguing that certain office solutions may increase sick leave and decrease productivity, a claim contested by consultancy firms like Avec.