Publications
Publications
- October 2002 (Revised November 2002)
- HBS Case Collection
Welfare State and its Impact on Business Competitiveness, The: Sweden Inc. for Sale?
By: Huw Pill, Petter Johnsson, Ola Nordquist and Ingrid Vogel
Abstract
The Swedish Model--sometimes presented as a third way between savage capitalism and unrealistic socialism--was much lauded in the 1960s. It was viewed as a strategy that addressed social concerns while supporting economic growth. However, the financial and currency crisis of the early 1990s threw the model into doubt and prompted much soul searching and reform among Sweden's establishment. The welfare state introduced in Sweden imposed a high tax burden on individuals and business. By the late 1990s, some concerns were emerging that these costs were acting as a deterrent to doing business in Sweden. In an international market for labor and capital, Sweden was a less attractive home for high-flying MBAs or multinational companies than other countries.
Keywords
Economic Systems; Welfare; Government and Politics; Taxation; Competition; Public Administration Industry; Sweden
Citation
Pill, Huw, Petter Johnsson, Ola Nordquist, and Ingrid Vogel. "Welfare State and its Impact on Business Competitiveness, The: Sweden Inc. for Sale?" Harvard Business School Case 703-019, October 2002. (Revised November 2002.)