Irish consumers rank among the most pessimistic in Europe when it comes to financial and geopolitical concerns.
A report by 2026 Banking on Banks shows that 42% of Irish people have less money to save each month, compared to a European average of 35%, reports Breaking News.
36% of people in Ireland expect to save less, and 33% think their financial position will worsen.
58% of Irish consumers plan to reduce their spending over the next 12 months, while 38% say they have already proactively sought out discounts, reports Breaking News.
33% have scaled back savings contributions, and 28% have drawn down existing savings to cover everyday living costs.
78% of European consumers have financial concerns about the next 12 months, up from 74% in 2025, reports Breaking News.
Half of Europeans plan to reduce their spending over the next 12 months, while just 12% intend to increase it.
Conflict in the Middle East is a major concern for 50% of consumers and 37% of business leaders, reports Breaking News.
70% of business leaders say the current global climate makes long-term planning difficult, and 30% fear their business may not survive the next decade.
Giovanni Catinari, Business Development Director for the UK and Ireland at CRIF, said: “Our 2026 survey highlights the financial and emotional strain many households across Europe continue to face. In Ireland, despite the economy’s recognised resilience, many consumers are feeling the pinch,” reports Breaking News.
“With inflation and geopolitical uncertainty continuing to weigh on confidence, more than two-fifths of Irish citizens are watching their disposable income decline, forcing many to cut spending or dip into their rainy-day savings to cover everyday costs,” reports Breaking News.
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