Household Confidence Index on the Rise
As reported by the High Commission for Planning (HCP), the Household Confidence Index (HCI) has recorded a notable increase, reaching 64.4 points in the first quarter of 2026. This marks a significant rise from 46.6 points during the same period in 2025. The findings from the ongoing household survey conducted by the HCP indicate that there is an overall improvement in household confidence when compared both to the previous quarter and the same quarter of the prior year.
Despite this positive trend in the confidence index, the survey revealed that a substantial 75.1% of households reported a deterioration in their living conditions over the past twelve months. Only 19.1% indicated that their situation remained stable, while a mere 5.8% experienced an improvement. The balance of opinion regarding past living conditions remains negative at -69.3 points, highlighting ongoing concerns among households.
Future Expectations and Financial Situations
Looking ahead, households appear to have mixed expectations regarding their living conditions in the coming year. Approximately 45.1% anticipate a decline in their quality of life, contrasted with 38.5% who expect stability, and 16.4% who are optimistic about an improvement. While the balance of this indicator has improved, it remains negative at -28.8 points. Employment concerns are also prevalent, with 57.9% of respondents predicting an increase in unemployment over the next twelve months, although this figure has improved slightly, resulting in a balance of -34.7 points.
Moreover, the survey indicates that a significant 66.9% of households believe that now is not an opportune time to make durable goods purchases, leading to a negative balance of -51 points for this indicator. Financially, 59.9% of households feel their incomes adequately cover their expenses, while 37.5% report resorting to debt or depleting savings, and only 2.5% are able to save a portion of their income. The balance of opinion regarding current financial situations remains unfavorable at -35 points.
When reflecting on their financial condition over the past year, 41.5% of households feel it has worsened, in stark contrast to the 4.8% who believe it has improved. However, expectations for the upcoming year show a slight shift, with 21.1% anticipating an improvement compared to 15.3% who foresee a decline, resulting in a positive balance of 5.8 points for future financial conditions.
The HCI is derived from seven indicators, including perspectives on living standards, employment trends, and the financial health of households. These insights not only shed light on current household sentiments but also reflect broader economic conditions affecting everyday life in Morocco.
As reported by maroc.ma.
