The decline in consumer confidence
In October 2024, Italy recorded a significant decline in consumer confidence, with the index falling from 98.3 to 97.4. This decrease is a clear sign of pessimism among Italian families regarding the current and future economic situation. The economic climate, in fact, fell from 103.9 to 99.7, while expectations for the future fell from 97.4 to 95. This scenario highlights a growing concern for the country’s economic stability, with direct repercussions on the propensity of families to spend
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The situation of companies
At the same time, business confidence also fell sharply, reaching its lowest level since 2021. The composite index fell from 95.6 to 93.4, with a particularly negative impact on the manufacturing and market services sectors. Firms producing intermediate and capital goods were the most affected, with the manufacturing index falling from 86.6 to 85.8. This deterioration is worrying, as it reflects a decrease in demand and production expectations, crucial elements for economic growth
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The reactions of consumer associations
Consumer associations, such as Codacons, have expressed concern about these data, calling them an ‘alarm signal’. President Carlo Rienzi stressed that the government’s maneuver has not convinced either consumers or businesses, contributing to a worsening of economic expectations. In addition, the National Consumer Union has highlighted that expectations for Italy’s economic situation have plummeted, with a drop of 7.5 percentage points. This climate of uncertainty could have negative effects on investments and employment, further aggravating the country’s economic situation
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