Italians are increasingly concerned about the future, fearing a major global economic crisis (67.6%), extreme weather disasters (69.5%), and earthquakes (57.8%). This is the conclusion drawn from Eurispes' Italy 2024 Report, now in its 37th edition and delivered yesterday at Rome's National Library. The possibility of a third world war (46.1%) and a new pandemic (45%) are also among the most common fears. The economic situation of households remains challenging: 60% of Italians are unable to make ends meet, and over half (55.7%) have a negative opinion of the economic performance of the past year. 42% report that their situation has remained unchanged, but 37.3% see it as having worsened, of which 11.9% significantly. Only 12.6% reported an improvement. Rent (44.3%), mortgage payments (32%), electricity (29.1%), and medical expenditures (24.9%) are among the most expensive items in the family budget. Although almost one-quarter of Italians (23.8%) are able to save, more than one-third (35.4%) are compelled to use their savings to cover expenses. However, compared to past years, there is a minor overall improvement: households forced to use savings are at an all-time low, and the ability to support fixed expenses is increasing, although still above pre-Ukraine war levels. Despite the obstacles, 72% of Italians say they are happy to live in Italy, up from 62.9% in 2011. The main reasons? Natural beauty (21.6%), artistic and cultural heritage (19.6%), gastronomy (14.8%), freedom of expression (13.2%), and weather (12%). On the spending front, 84.1% believe costs are rising, prompting many to postpone major purchases (59.5%), giving up on a babysitter (54%), cut back on outings (50.1%), and travel or vacation (50%). In addition, more than half of Italians (53.4%) have used installment payments, particularly for household goods (44.5%), vehicles or motorbikes (42.5%), and electronic items (42.3%). Platforms that offer interest-free installment payments are increasingly popular (65.3%). In conclusion, the report underscores an additional critical aspect: a significant number of individuals give up their health care. 28.2% indicated they had put off dental treatment, 27.2% preventative checks, 22.3% expert appointments, and 18.1% medical interventions or therapies.
|