Consumer Confidence


NTB's coverage of banks, 1986-1995.
 The banking industry is based on confidence. There must be faith in that deposits are managed in a good way and that the terms for loans are maintained. The population must believe that bank investments are based on fair evaluations of society.


    During 1985-1991, many bank customers experienced debt problems. At the same time, several banks got into financial problems due to unfortunate or dubious dispositions. Confidence in the banking system decreased dramatically, probably as a result of deregulation, the following crisis, and criticism in the mass media.
    Peoples' confidence in banking fell 50% points during 1985 to 1991, while faith in other institutions remained stable. The increase in confidence from 1992 is probably a result of the emergency measures enacted by the government. It is yet to be seen whether the banks, as market participants, can restore the same level of confidence they had before 1985.

Consumer Confidence 1985-1993.
Source: Marit Halvorsen: "Tiltro som krisebarometer. Endringer i tiltro til norsk bankvesen i perioden 1985-1993". Hovedfagsoppgave i sosiologi. Universitetet i Bergen 1996.