French Consumer Confidence Hits Lowest Level Since 2013
French consumer confidence dropped to 80 in October, the lowest level in 13 years, amid widespread protests against government economic policies.
Consumer confidence in France fell to 80 in October, marking the lowest level since June 2013. Data released by the Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques on October 27 showed the figure fell short of the 85 expected by Reuters economists.
This decline coincides with a wave of national protests that began in September. The unrest started with student demonstrations in suburban Paris over school conditions before expanding into broader opposition to the economic policies of the French government.
Households reported increased concern over sharp price inflation and worsening views on personal finances. Consumers also expressed rising fears regarding unemployment trends and a decreased belief that current conditions are favorable for savings, reflecting general gloom regarding the national economy.