Italy: Rising energy costs increase debt risk for stable workers

The consumer association Codices has warned of a growing risk of over-indebtedness among Italian workers with stable employment and average incomes. According to a report by the Finsight Observatory of Bravo, an international fintech firm, the profile of those facing financial default is shifting away from those in extreme marginality toward the middle class.

Data from an analysis of 14,400 Italian clients indicates that 55% of cases involve employees, with 35% earning a monthly net salary of less than 2,000 euros. These individuals often manage multiple debts totaling approximately 30,000 euros, with monthly interest payments reaching nearly 600 euros.

The crisis is being driven by rising living costs, particularly energy. Projections suggest annual increases of 27% for electricity and 43% for gas. These rising utility and transport expenses, compounded by international tensions affecting wholesale prices, are making it increasingly difficult for regular earners to cover both essential costs and existing loan repayments.