White Paper 2024: Striving for a brighter future

This report, released in March 2024, serves as a follow-up to the full European Consumer Payment Report (ECPR), published in November 2023. The term ‘pulse’ implies capturing a quick snapshot or pulse of consumer sentiment at a particular moment in time. It is based on insights from 20,000 consumers across 20 European countries.

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Increasing confidence in meeting financial commitments

3 in 4 (74%) of Europeans feel confident in their ability to pay monthly bills, showing a positive shift from previous years. This newfound assurance suggests a gradual recovery from the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis.

The financial gender gap persists across Europe

The data indicates that women are more likely to experience financial distress, highlighting the ongoing financial gender gap that affects their economic wellbeing.

Long-term financial stress and mental health concerns

Despite improved financial confidence, 54% of consumers report ongoing financial stress, contributing to a significant mental health epidemic. This highlights the importance of addressing financial wellbeing beyond just meeting immediate obligations.

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Other editions of the report:

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.

White Paper 2020: Special edition Covid-19

Based on a pulse survey conducted already in May 2020, this edition reveals how the pandemic has disrupted household incomes, increased debt levels, and shaped new financial realities across 24 European countries.

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.

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