Low-income earners have a difficult end to the month, but the Christmas period is even more problematic than the rest of the year. In a study by the Dons Solidaires association, nearly one in two households will reduce their gift budget this year and a third would even have difficulty giving a gift.
A hole in the wallet. According to a study by the Dons Solidaires association, a third of French people fear not being able to give gifts during the end-of-year holidays. Nearly half will see their budget reduced compared to last Christmas, figures down since last year (- 7 points).
Single-parent families are obviously the households most affected. No less than 57% of those surveyed who need to reduce the budget in 2024 are single-parent households. Added to this is a feeling of guilt at not being able to spoil your children, expressed by no less than 51% of parents.
However, many conclusions are “positive” in relation to Christmas 2023. No less than 37% of French people are not worried as the holidays approach, an increase of four points. Thus, 29% of parents will not be obliged to reduce their budget in order to prefer Christmas gifts. Parents who will deprive themselves of purchases to favor their children will go from 61% in 2023 to 49% in 2024.
The overall purchasing power of the French up slightly
French purchasing power is increasing slightly. This year, it falls below half of the French population. In fact, less than 50% of households fear not being able to make ends meet. An increase which particularly concerns modest to poor categories, but also households with children.
People aged 18 to 49 experience little or no financial difficulties, unlike older people who face greater problems. Many parents will be able to offer what they want, without financial restrictions, to their children. Nearly 50% of households are affected.
