In a surprising downturn, Bulgaria’s consumer confidence index plummeted to its lowest point since the final quarter of 2023, reaching -21.1 in the third quarter of 2025. This significant drop from the preceding quarter’s -16.4 signals a growing concern among Bulgarian consumers about the nation’s economic stability.
The Pessimistic Shift in Household Sentiments
Consumer confidence isn’t merely a statistic — it’s a reflection of the collective psyche of the populace. During this period, Bulgarian households expressed a more pessimistic view of their financial prospects, with the index dipping from -7.7 in Q2 to a stark -16.8. The faith in the broader economic future of the country has similarly waned, falling to -31.6 from the earlier -21.
Durables and Savings: A Shift in Spending Paradigms
While willingness to purchase durable goods saw a minute recovery from a dire -31.8 to -25.7, the negative stance on savings amplified, with the index further declining to -33.4 from -31.4. These numbers portray a society bracing for an uncertain future, meticulously assessing their spending decisions.
Inflation: The Rising Nemesis
One of the most worrying trends is the anticipated rise in inflation, with expectations boosting alarmingly from 18.8 to 33.6. This escalation mirrors global inflationary trends, yet its impact is felt keenly as Bulgarian households brace for tighter financial circumstances, adjusting their expectations and spending habits accordingly.
Employment Concerns: A Slight Respite
Interestingly, concerns about unemployment have somewhat eased, decreasing from 19.5 to 15. This minor silver lining amid the otherwise troubling economic horizon might hint at stabilizing job markets, providing a modicum of relief for an anxious populace.
The Bigger Picture: Future Economic Pathways
As stated in TradingView, Bulgaria’s economic landscape requires careful navigation. The country’s policymakers and economic strategists are at a critical juncture, needing to deploy informed strategies to restore consumer confidence and stabilize the economic environment. The upcoming periods will be pivotal in shaping Bulgaria’s economic trajectory, necessitating concerted efforts to fuel recovery and resilience among its people.
