Irish Consumer Sentiment Improves in May

2026-05-25 22:59 By Joshua Ferrer 1 min. read

Ireland’s Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 59.4 in May 2026 from a forty-month low of 53.3 in April, reversing more than half of the decline recorded over the previous two months as easing energy costs and government support measures improved confidence.

The rebound followed a ceasefire in the Middle East that reduced fears of severe economic disruption and helped lower fuel prices, while stronger-than-expected public finances boosted expectations of further support for households and businesses.

Still, sentiment remained well below the survey’s long-term average of 83.3, reflecting persistent concerns over living costs and economic uncertainty.

A special survey question showed that only 56% of households could cover an unexpected €1,000 expense using savings or income, while around one in four would need to borrow from non-bank lenders, sell assets, or could not cope, underscoring persistent financial strains across Irish households.



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Irish Consumer Sentiment Improves in May
Ireland’s Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 59.4 in May 2026 from a forty-month low of 53.3 in April, reversing more than half of the decline recorded over the previous two months as easing energy costs and government support measures improved confidence. The rebound followed a ceasefire in the Middle East that reduced fears of severe economic disruption and helped lower fuel prices, while stronger-than-expected public finances boosted expectations of further support for households and businesses. Still, sentiment remained well below the survey’s long-term average of 83.3, reflecting persistent concerns over living costs and economic uncertainty. A special survey question showed that only 56% of households could cover an unexpected €1,000 expense using savings or income, while around one in four would need to borrow from non-bank lenders, sell assets, or could not cope, underscoring persistent financial strains across Irish households.
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