Italy economic outlook shows corporate growth amid household and SME struggles

Italy's economic landscape shows a mix of corporate growth, rising consumer confidence, and persistent household and small business struggles.

Optima Italia reported record 2025 revenues of 430.7 million euros, a 16.9% increase, serving 850,000 customers across energy and telecommunications sectors. Meanwhile, Istat reported a slight uptick in August confidence for both families and businesses, driven largely by the construction sector.

However, structural challenges remain. An Eurispes report indicates that only 24.4% of Italian families are able to save, with rent cited as the primary financial burden for 45.6% of households. Additionally, a Confapi survey reveals that 64.18% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are experiencing stagnant or declining orders, with over half of these businesses failing to invest in the first half of 2026.

On a broader scale, Italy's GDP and exports show signs of stability and strength relative to other European nations, with the Financial Times noting Italy's fiscal progress compared to France.