Insights

Indexed savings accounts are meant to help money keep its value, but capital income tax in Iceland is charged on the nominal return. This article explains how tax on indexation can reduce the real return on savings, especially for people saving for a first home.

Buying and running a car can seriously delay young people’s ability to save for a home. This article uses a simple example to show how avoiding car ownership, using public transport and saving the difference can bring a first-home down payment much closer.

Planning to buy a home in Iceland? This article explains what first-time buyers should consider when saving for a down payment, including mortgage rules, savings options, pension savings and house price growth.

Being good with money doesn’t mean you should never spend it. This article explains how to find a healthier balance between saving, paying down debt and using money for things that genuinely improve your life.

Electric cars can have real advantages, but that doesn’t automatically make a car loan a good idea. This article looks at running costs, taxes, depreciation and why car loans can put unnecessary pressure on household finances.

If you started saving for retirement later than others, there may still be a lot you can do. This article explains how to review your pension position, build private pension savings, reduce debt and plan for a more secure financial future in Iceland.

Buying a first home in Iceland can feel impossible for young people, but there are steps teenagers can take early. This article explains how saving, working, supplementary pension savings and careful spending can help future first-time buyers prepare.

Making extra payments on a mortgage can have a much larger effect than many people realise. This article uses a simple example to show how paying more each month can shorten the loan term, reduce interest and indexation costs, and improve long-term financial security.

Looking for practical financial goals for 2026? This guide covers five smart money resolutions, including saving, budgeting, debt reduction, and pension planning, with advice tailored to people living and working in Iceland.

Many people in Iceland can choose how their pension contributions are split between private pension savings and collective pension rights. This article explains the difference in plain English and helps you understand what to consider before making a choice.

Indexed mortgages in Iceland can be confusing, especially when the balance seems barely changed after years of payments. This article explains how inflation, indexation and long loan terms affect the mortgage balance, and how higher payments can change the outcome.

Short-term losses can make investors want to move their money, especially in retirement. This article explains why six months is a very short time in financial markets, how past returns can mislead us, and what to consider before changing an investment plan.

Teaching teenagers about money starts with clear rules, calm conversations and real responsibility. This article explains how parents can help teenagers build a healthy work ethic, avoid bad money habits and become more financially independent.

Household budgeting doesn’t need to be overwhelming. This article explains how families can organise expenses, set shared goals, plan regular savings and create a simple budget that makes everyday money decisions easier.

Using several savings accounts can make household finances easier to manage. This article explains how named accounts for Christmas, travel, car replacement and home maintenance can help you save regularly and avoid unnecessary debt.

Travelling should not leave you with expensive debt, poor exchange rates or avoidable fees. This article shares practical tips on card payments, ATMs, travel safety, daily spending and planning ahead so you can enjoy your holiday without financial stress.

Convenient payment plans can make consumer debt seem harmless, but easy borrowing can still be expensive and damaging. This article uses the Swedish idea of “vaskning” to explain why instalment plans, credit card debt and consumer loans are often just money down the drain.