Swedish pension returns show significant variation among providers

A comparison of pension providers for the third quarter of 2026 reveals substantial differences in returns for ITP traditional insurance for individuals under 56. Folksam led the group with a one-year return of 13.52 percent, which would result in an increase of 13,520 SEK on a 100,000 SEK starting capital. Nordea followed with a 12.38 percent return, while Alecta, AMF, and SPP recorded lower returns of 11.85 percent, 8.05 percent, and 7.24 percent, respectively.

Long-term performance also varied, with Folksam maintaining the highest three-year and five-year average returns. The difference in one-year returns between the highest and lowest performing providers amounted to 6,280 SEK per 100,000 SEK invested.

Separately, discussions regarding the Swedish pension system highlight concerns over future adjustments. While income pensions are expected to rise by 2.2 percent next year, the guarantee pension is projected to increase by only 0.7 percent. Critics and pensioner organizations have noted that these discrepancies may continue to disadvantage low-income earners.