Every time when there is a discussion about deficits and general government debt in Europe - the cases of Italy and France are brought up as the problem while, at the same time, Germany and Sweden are brought up as an example of allegedly robust and fair welfare states that somehow miraculously avoid deficits. In 2017, both left-wing and right-wing publications were mentioning Sweden as an example of a surprisingly thrifty administration because the shekels it manages to steal from its population through taxation are enough to run the government till January the 20th next year.

In contrast, most governments of Europe effectively run out of money around late October or early November and then continue to function for 50 to 65 days on credit. Every single year. This is true, and, of course, it's not sutainable. But is it REALLY true about Sweden that it is the most fiscally responsible country in Europe?! Let's explore!