Qome 30% of Belgians have an income that barely allows them to make it through the month and Belgians lack on average 300 euros each month to not have to worry about their budget. This is what emerged on Monday from the fourth purchasing power barometer conducted by Cofidis, a company specializing in consumer credit.
For 52.2% of the thousand people surveyed online in April, purchasing power remains the main concern after their health (64.2%). Two thirds of respondents (67%) also say that their purchasing power has remained unchanged over the past year, while one in five respondents believe that it has deteriorated. The main causes are: increased health care costs, increased housing costs such as rent or mortgage or a change in professional situation.
Half of the respondents also say they are able to make it through the month without too much difficulty, provided they are careful and not make rash purchases. However, more of them say that their income is barely enough to make it through the month and that they have to be very careful about what they buy (25% compared to 31% this year).
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Nearly seven in ten people (68%) believe their purchasing power will not increase over the next three years. This is particularly the case for those who have dependent children (74%).
More Belgians than last year have encountered difficulties paying for their health care (12% on average compared to 9%). This is also the case for paying energy bills (13%) or taking out insurance (9%).
It should also be noted that Belgians are missing on average 300 euros each month so as not to have to worry about their budget and that, faced with soaring prices, one in two people have had to tighten their belts by reducing their spending. essential items (clothing and leisure activities) as well as their consumption of water, gas or electricity and by purchasing cheaper and/or second-hand products.
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