Savings and long-term strategies

KEEPING ONE’S HEAD

While Europeans feel that their consumption is restricted by budgetary constraints, they would not necessarily seek to redress the balance by spending more in the event of an unexpected financial windfall. In fact, three-quarters would choose to save more, with some populations displaying great caution, such as the Portuguese and Belgians, and others less so, such as the Germans (Fig. 19). And although income does not appear to be a particularly decisive factor, the same cannot be said for age. The under-50s, especially those at the younger end of the scale, are less inclined to save than their elders.

This heightened tendency to put money aside was particularly evident during the Covid crisis. Since that period, nothing has been able to shift the trend, not even falling inflation. It also makes sense that people tend to save more as they get older, since they have already covered the bulk of their expenses, particularly the more substantial ones.

The section devoted to the 2025 Cetelem Barometer offers a more in-depth analysis of the crucial issue of savings.

DIFFERENT STRATEGIES TO KEEP ON SPENDING

Saving adds a long-term element to the world of consumption. In fact, this appreciation of the long term is clearly apparent among Europeans, who have no hesitation in deploying forward-looking strategies to satisfy their desires against the odds.

Indeed, 7 out of 10 people save up for several months, sometimes even years, to be able to afford the object of their desire (not including property). Another solution that hinges on the time factor is paying for purchases in several instalments. 6 out of 10 Europeans resort to this solution. Many also draw on savings that they have scrupulously set aside, generate additional income by selling goods or take on a second job. The success of websites that allow people to sell pre-used items, as well as the development of unstable jobs, particularly in home delivery and other services, confirm the views of Europeans. As a last resort, many seek the help of relatives or borrow money (Fig. 20).

Whatever approach they take, young people are more likely to seek ways of overcoming their budgetary constraints so as to satisfy their whims. From a geographical perspective, three countries stand out from the rest: Spain, Romania and Portugal.

KEY DATA

6 out of Europeans feel that they cannot afford to meet all their basic needs

7 out of 10 feel that they cannot afford to satisfy their whims

1 in 2 feel frustrated at not being able to buy something they want at least once a month

3 in 4 would choose to save more rather than spend more if they had more money

7 out of 10 save up for several months to buy what they want