White Paper 2020: Special edition Covid-19

This report, released in June 2020, provides insights into how Covid-19 has impacted European consumers' financial wellbeing from the first months of the pandemic. The term ‘pulse’ implies capturing a quick snapshot or pulse of consumer sentiment at a particular moment in time and is based on survey 24,000 consumer across Europe.

Download the full report

A steep decline in financial wellbeing

Nearly half (48%) of European consumers reported a decrease in their financial wellbeing within the first six months of the pandemic. This decline has particularly affected younger generations and households with children, raising concerns over long-term financial stability.

Employment and income under pressure

The Covid-19 crisis has severely impacted employment, with 4 in 10 consumers facing changes in their job situation. More than half (54%) have seen a drop in their household income, which has led many to take on more debt to cover everyday expenses.

Long-term savings hit hard

Savings for the future have reduced, with 39% of consumers saving significantly less than before the pandemic. Women, in particular, have expressed concerns about their ability to save for retirement, reflecting deeper financial inequalities.

Download the report

Download the White Paper

Other editions:

White Paper 2024: Striving for a brighter future

In a positive development since the 2023 ECPR findings, some consumers feel that their household finances are improving. Many do, however, remain extremely worried about how they will make ends meet.

European Consumer Payment Report 2023

The European Consumer Payment Report 2023 provides an in-depth analysis of the financial challenges faced by consumers amidst an ongoing economic downturn. With insights drawn from 20,000 respondents across Europe, this report highlights critical shifts in consumer attitudes towards payment behaviours and the increasing need for improved financial literacy.

CEO Point of View 2023: Turning Europe's payments crisis into customer trust

Our President and CEO, Andrés Rubio, comments on the fresh results of consumer payment trends. The POV was released in September 2023, serving as a precursor to the full ECPR 2023, set to be published in November.

European Consumer Payment Report 2022

The European Consumer Payment Report 2022 reveals a concerning decline in consumer confidence as inflation and rising interest rates create widespread anxiety regarding financial stability. This report highlights the challenges faced by households, the impact of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and the urgent need for improved financial literacy.

European Consumer Payment Report 2021

The European Consumer Payment Report 2021 examines the financial realities of consumers following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The report reveals how rising inflation and evolving consumer behaviours are shaping financial wellbeing across Europe, highlighting the urgent need for improved financial education and sustainability practices among businesses.

European Consumer Payment Report 2020

The European Consumer Payment Report 2020 delves into the financial challenges faced by consumers amid the Covid-19 pandemic. This report highlights the significant impacts on household income, the increasing reliance on borrowing, and the growing need for financial literacy as consumers navigate an uncertain economic landscape.

European Consumer Payment Report 2019

The European Consumer Payment Report 2019 highlights the growing financial stress among consumers as rising bills outpace incomes across Europe. This report examines the increasing reliance on borrowing, the need for improved financial literacy, and the urgent call for consumers to navigate their financial wellbeing amidst economic uncertainty.

European Consumer Payment Report 2018

The European Consumer Payment Report 2018 reveals the financial realities faced by 24,000 consumers across Europe. While many have experienced improved financial situations amidst rising economic confidence, significant numbers continue to struggle with tight budgets and increasing debt levels. This report sheds light on the duality of the European economic landscape and highlights the urgent need for enhanced financial education.

European Consumer Payment Report 2017

The European Consumer Payment Report 2017 examines the financial behaviours and attitudes of over 24,000 consumers across Europe. With a noticeable shift towards digital consumption and increased social pressure to spend, this report highlights the challenges faced by consumers in managing their finances and the importance of financial education.

European Consumer Payment Report 2016

The European Consumer Payment Report 2016 explores the financial behaviours and attitudes of over 21,000 consumers across Europe. As economic uncertainty and consumer debt levels rise, this report highlights the challenges of managing household finances and the pressing need for financial education to empower consumers.

European Consumer Payment Report 2015

The European Consumer Payment Report 2015 provides insights into the financial behaviours and challenges faced by over 22,400 consumers across Europe. As economic conditions fluctuate, this report highlights the pressing need for financial education and the impact of social pressures on spending habits.

European Consumer Payment Report 2014

The European Consumer Payment Report 2014 explores the slow recovery from the economic crisis affecting millions of consumers across Europe. With over 21,000 respondents surveyed, this report highlights the lack of confidence in financial recovery, rising consumer debt, and the urgent need for effective financial education.

European Consumer Payment Report 2013

The European Consumer Payment Report 2013 examines the financial challenges faced by over 10,000 consumers across Europe amidst ongoing economic instability. This report reveals declining consumer confidence, the impact of rising costs, and the critical need for improved financial literacy to help consumers navigate their economic realities.

Insight hub | Most read insight articles

Explore payment trends and economic insights