As announced on 16 March, the Riksbank intends to extend its purchases of securities this year by up to SEK 300 billion. The purchases will if necessary include bonds issued by the state and municipalities, as well as covered bonds. The aim is to support economic development and avoid problems in credit supply leading to further aggravation of the economic consequences of the corona pandemic.

In connection with this decision, the Executive Board stressed that the purchases of government bonds should be initiated immediately. The first purchase will be made tomorrow, 18 March, when the Riksbank will purchase nominal government bonds to a nominal amount of SEK 2.5 billion. This purchase is the first step in the asset purchase programme the Executive Board decided on 16 March.

In addition to these purchases, the already announced auction of nominal government bonds amounting to SEK 1 billion will be held on Thursday, 19 March, in accordance with the Executive Board’s decision in April 2019.

The first auction for covered bonds is planned for Wednesday, 25 March. The terms and conditions for this will be announced no later than Tuesday, 24 March.