Nournews: The latest global comparison of housing loans provides a clear picture of financial support for housing across different countries, where Iran’s position is particularly concerning. With only about 3 percent of total banking facilities allocated to housing, Iran ranks at the bottom of the list. This gap is not only substantial compared to the global average of 19 percent but also incomparable with other statistical examples.

At first glance, developed countries lead in allocating banking resources to the housing sector. Norway (65 percent), the UK (49 percent), Switzerland (46 percent), and Sweden (44 percent) demonstrate that in advanced economies, housing is one of the main pillars of credit-based systems and a key driver of families’ purchasing power. These countries view the banking system not only as a primary source of financial provision but also as a tool for social policymaking to support public welfare.

Other significant economies, such as Australia (64 percent), Canada (35 percent), and the U.S. (28 percent), also allocate a substantial share to housing despite having different financial structures. These figures show that housing is not merely an investment commodity but also a critical link between livelihood, social security, and the flow of credit.

Even in regional examples—such as Saudi Arabia (23 percent), Brazil (16 percent), and Angola (38 percent)—the share of housing loans is considerably higher than in Iran. The comparison becomes even more meaningful when considering the rapid rise in house prices in Iran, the reduction in families’ purchasing power, and the limited access of youths and the middle class to official financial support.

With only a 3 percent share of banking support for housing, Iran is placed at the lowest point globally. This highlights a significant gap in credit policymaking for the housing sector. While housing is recognized as a driver of production, employment, and economic growth, the decline of its weight in the banking network may exacerbate the lack of access to shelter, increase inequality, and intensify economic pressures on families.

If economic policymakers aim to contain house prices, expanding the credit-giving system of banking loans is not optional—it is a necessity.