Norwegian Economic Crimes Agency Clears Former Prime Minister’s Husband of Insider Trading Allegations

Oslo, Norway

The Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Oekokrim) announced on Friday, 2nd September, that it has closed the insider trading investigation into Sindre Finnes, the husband of former Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg.

No Indication of Insider Trading

According to a statement released by Oekokrim, the investigation found no evidence that Finnes had received inside information or used it for financial gain during Solberg’s tenure as prime minister from 2013 to 2021. Despite intensifying media coverage and political pressure, Finnes, who made over 3,600 share deals during this period, was cleared of insider trading allegations.

Relief and Satisfaction

Solberg, who is the leader of the center-right party Hoeyre and a potential prime ministerial candidate in the 2025 general election, expressed relief and satisfaction over the investigation’s conclusion. During a press conference, she stated, “This is a clear and unambiguous conclusion that no indication of insider trading has been found.” Solberg remains optimistic about her support within Hoeyre, despite the controversy surrounding Finnes’ stock trading activities.

The Controversy

Finnes and former Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt made headlines in September when their husbands’ stock trading behind their backs came to light. Finnes acknowledged in a statement issued through his lawyer that he had lied to Solberg about his trades. Huitfeldt accepted that she should have made inquiries about her partner’s financial activities.

Political Changes

The local elections in September saw a significant shift in power, with Solberg’s Hoeyre party taking the lead with nearly 26% of the votes, marking a significant increase from the previous elections in 2019. The social democratic Labor party, which had historically secured the largest number of votes, came in second with just under 22% of the ballots.

Future Plans

Despite last year’s defeat in the general election, Solberg’s aspirations to return to power remain undeterred. The ultimate decision regarding her candidacy rests with the Hoeyre party.