Börskollen: Is a Standard Depå Better Than ISK for Long-Term Saving?
New calculations shared on Börskollen suggest that a traditional stock account may outperform an ISK for very long-term savings due to tax differences.
Quick facts
- An ISK leads for the first 20 years in typical growth scenarios.
- A standard depå can yield 129,000 SEK more after 30 years based on 6.5% annual returns.
- The tax advantage of a depå increases if annual returns are below 3.7%.
Why it matters
The discussion surrounding Börskollen reflects a broader trend among Swedish investors to scrutinize tax-efficient savings vehicles. As tax rules for ISK accounts are set to change, the mathematical advantage of deferring capital gains tax in a traditional depå is becoming a focal point for long-term retirement planning. Whether these models hold up depends entirely on future legislative changes to Swedish capital taxation.
As of October 16, 2026, Swedish savers are re-evaluating their portfolios following new calculations regarding the profitability of the Investeringssparkonto (ISK) compared to a traditional stock account (depå). The trending search term börskollen refers to widely discussed analysis concerning when each savings vehicle provides the best long-term return.
What the calculations show
According to data cited by Börskollen and originally attributed to Länsförsäkringar, the choice between an ISK and a standard depå depends heavily on the investment horizon. While an ISK is often preferred for its tax structure, the annual taxation can become a disadvantage over several decades.
For a capital base of 700,000 SEK (excluding the initial tax-free level) with a 6.5 percent annual return, the results are as follows:
| Time Horizon | Winner | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Years | ISK | 51,700 SEK more |
| 20 Years | ISK | 61,100 SEK more |
| 30 Years | Depå | 129,000 SEK more |
Why is this trending in Sweden?
The topic is trending as Swedish households look to optimize their finances ahead of anticipated tax changes on ISK and capital insurance accounts. Savers are increasingly looking for data-driven comparisons to determine if their current long-term strategy remains effective.
What is confirmed and what is not
It is confirmed that these calculations are based on a hypothetical 6.5 percent annual return and current tax rules. It is not confirmed how future tax adjustments, which are expected after the new year, will alter these specific outcomes. The figures serve as a model for comparison rather than a guaranteed financial result for every individual saver.
Expert perspective
Stefan Westerberg, a private economist at Länsförsäkringar, suggests a hybrid approach. The general advice is to keep equity funds in an ISK and interest-bearing savings in a traditional depå. If the expected annual return is below 3.7 percent, the analysis indicates that a standard depå may be the more effective choice from the start.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between ISK and a standard depå?
An ISK is taxed annually based on the account value, regardless of profit or loss. A traditional depå (stock account) is taxed only when you sell your holdings, allowing you to defer tax payments on capital gains until the point of sale.
When does a standard depå become more profitable?
Calculations indicate that for long-term horizons of 30 years or more, a standard depå can outperform an ISK due to the benefits of deferred taxation. It may also be more profitable from the start if the expected annual return is below 3.7 percent.
What is Börskollen?
Börskollen is a platform that aggregates financial news and analysis. It is currently trending because it highlighted reports comparing the long-term profitability of different Swedish savings account types.
Are taxes on ISK increasing?
Yes, reports indicate that taxes on ISK and capital insurance are scheduled to be raised after the new year. This change is a primary driver for the current public interest in comparing savings account efficiency.
Should I move my money from an ISK to a depå?
Financial experts like Stefan Westerberg suggest maintaining a split strategy: equity funds in an ISK and interest-bearing savings in a depå. Decisions should be based on your specific time horizon and expected annual return, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Is the 129,000 SEK figure guaranteed?
No, this figure is an estimate based on a specific calculation using a 6.5 percent annual return over 30 years. Actual results will vary based on market performance, your specific investments, and future changes to Swedish tax legislation.
In this story
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Trend snapshot
- Topic
- Business
- Trending in
- Sweden
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- 1000+ recent searches
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- Oct 16, 2026 at 3:30 PM
Peak: 1K+ searches, 2 hours ago. Strongest in: Sweden (1K+).
Last checked Oct 16, 2026 at 3:30 PM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work · How we verify
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