Austria's private assets are blowing up national debt: a financial boom!

Austria's private assets are blowing up national debt: a financial boom!

In Austria, the financial assets of private households and companies are now significantly higher than the national debt. This is shown by a current analysis by the Momentum Institute, which is based on figures from the EU Commission. This development is particularly remarkable because financial assets have grown faster than the state's debts in recent years.

According to current data, private net financial assets per capita amounted to more than 38,000 euros at the beginning of 2025. This number illustrates remarkable growth, as private net financial assets have increased by around 10,400 euros since 2020. However, in the course of this development, national debt per capita has also increased. These currently amount to around 25,400 euros, minus state financial assets, which means an increase of 3,670 euros since 2020.

Long-term trends

An even larger look at financial developments in Austria over a period of 25 years shows that private assets have increased sevenfold, while national debt has almost tripled. These long-term trends raise questions about the balance between private and public finances and highlight the need to consider reforms.

In its analysis, the Momentum Institute highlights the importance of tax reforms. There are calls for the reintroduction of wealth tax as well as inheritance and gift taxes. A proposal to increase capital gains tax to absorb capital gains is also being discussed.

Developments in the financial sector and the increased assets of private households and companies are directly related to the current financial situation of the state. It remains to be seen how politics and society will respond to these challenges.

For further information and details on this analysis, we refer to the reports from the standard and ORF.