France: households confidence has stabilized in October

National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee) said, in October 2019, households’ confidence in the economic situation has been stable, after nine months of increase. At 104, the synthetic index remains above its long-term average (100).

In October, households' opinion balance on their past financial situation has been stable, but the one about their future financial situation has lost two points. These two balances remain above their long-term average. Furthermore, the share of households considering it is a suitable time to make major purchases has slightly increased compared to last month: the corresponding balance has increased by one point and remains well above its long term average.

In October, households’ opinion on their expected saving capacity has deteriorated significantly: the corresponding balance has decreased by five points. Nevertheless, it remains above its long-term average. The current saving capacity balance has been stable. The share of households considering it is a suitable time to save has increased slightly: the corresponding balance has gained one point but remains below its long term average.

Households' fears about the unemployment trend have increased slightly in October: the corresponding balance has gained one point, after losing five points in September. However, it remains well below its long-term average.