In an international landscape still marked by uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the Italian economy shows signs of resilience. Disposable income and employment - at all-time highs - are increasing, while inflation remains under control. Still, Italian households seem to be moving between two opposing pushes: a desire to return to normal living and consumption, and caution dictated by a general climate of uncertainty. This is what emerges from the Confcommercio-Censis report “Climate of Confidence and Expectations of Italian Families 2025”, which photographs a still fragile confidence: the balance between optimists and pessimists, while remaining positive, has more than halved compared to 2023 (10.8 points versus 27.5). A quarter of households fear a drop in their income, and this affects their daily economic choices. However, there is no shortage of signs of openness: spending intentions are growing compared to 2024, especially for home appliances (+10.9%) and technological products (+9.1%). Summer vacations are also back in the spotlight, with 37.7% of Italians already planning a departure - the highest percentage since 2019. The figure, embodied by 46.5% of “optimists despite everything”, testifies to the resilience of the desire for normality. If no new external shocks occur, real consumption could grow by 1% in both 2025 and 2026, according to the study. But to really boost consumption and investment, one condition remains decisive: rebuilding confidence.
|