Household Confidence Index Shows Positive Trends
On April 20, 2026, the High Commissioner for Planning reported a significant improvement in the Household Confidence Index, which reached 64.4 points during the first quarter of 2026. This marks a notable increase from the 46.6 points recorded during the same period in the previous year. The findings were derived from a comprehensive survey conducted by the High Commissioner, highlighting a positive shift in household sentiment compared to both the previous quarter and the first quarter of 2025.
Despite this increase, the survey revealed that a substantial 75.1% of households reported a decline in their living standards over the past 12 months. In contrast, only 19.1% noted stability, and a mere 5.8% experienced an improvement. Consequently, the net balance for this particular indicator remained in negative territory at -69.3 points. Looking ahead, 45.1% of households anticipate a worsening of their living standards in the next year, while 38.5% expect stability, and 16.4% foresee an improvement, leading to a net balance of -28.8 points, although this also reflects an improvement from prior assessments.
Regarding employment prospects, 57.9% of households predicted an increase in unemployment over the next 12 months, with the net balance for this indicator improving yet still remaining negative at -34.7 points. Additionally, 66.9% of households deemed the conditions unsuitable for purchasing durable goods, resulting in a negative net balance of -51 points.
Financially, 59.9% of households indicated that their incomes adequately covered their expenses, while 37.5% either depleted their savings or resorted to borrowing. Only 2.5% of households reported being able to save a portion of their income, reflecting a negative net balance of -35 points regarding their current financial situation. When assessing the financial situation over the past year, 41.5% reported deterioration compared to 4.8% who noted improvement, yielding a net balance of -36.7 points.
Looking ahead, 21.1% of households expect their financial conditions to improve in the coming year, against 15.3% who foresee a decline, resulting in a net balance of 5.8 points, which displays a positive change compared to previous evaluations. The Household Confidence Index is derived from seven indicators: four concerning the overall economic situation and three related to family-specific circumstances, including past and future living standards, employment expectations, and current and future financial situations.
As reported by maroc.ma.
