Eurozone Consumer Confidence Improves in September

Euro Area consumer confidence was confirmed at -20.6 in April 2026, the lowest since December 2022, compared to -16.4 in the prior month, according to flash estimates. In the broader European Union, consumer sentiment plunged to -19.4 from -15.4 in March, driven by broad-based weakness across all components, amid heightened global economic uncertainty linked to the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Energy supply disruptions arising from the Middle East conflict are stoking inflationary pressures, which may prompt higher interest rates and place further strain on households. Survey respondents reported worsening finances, softer spending plans, and a pronounced deterioration in economic expectations. Confidence in both the eurozone and the EU remains well below their long-term averages.

Euro Area consumer confidence slipped by 4.3 points from a month earlier to -20.6 in April 2026, the lowest since December 2022, according to flash estimates. This reflects growing caution among households amid an uncertain economic outlook. Persistent geopolitical tensions and shipping disruptions are contributing to higher energy prices and inflationary pressures, which may squeeze household purchasing power. Expectations for ECB rate hikes have edged lower recently, though markets still price in two increases this year. In the broader European Union, consumer sentiment also plummeted 4.2 points to -19.4. Confidence in both the eurozone and the EU remains well below their long-term averages.

Euro Area consumer confidence was confirmed at -16.3 in March 2026, the lowest since October 2023, down from -12.3 in the prior month. Broader EU sentiment followed a similar path, dropping to -15.2, near a 2½-year low, from -11.8 in February and consistent with preliminary estimates. Rising inflation expectations linked to the Middle East conflict contributed to the decline, leading consumers to revise downward their expectations for the overall economic situation in their countries. Households also grew more pessimistic about their future finances and less willing to undertake major purchases over the next 12 months while their assessment of past finances remained generally stable.