# Italian household financial risk and debt trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-household-financial-risk-aversion-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-17T21:11:46.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 2.

Research conducted by Intesa Sanpaolo and Centro Einaudi indicates that Italian households are exhibiting increased caution regarding savings and investments in 2026. The risk aversion ratio has risen significantly to 33.6, up from 20.5 in 2025 and 8.1 in 2017.

This trend of financial prudence is most notable among young adults aged 18 to 24, where the risk aversion ratio reaches 84, and among women, who show a ratio of 41.9 compared to 27.6 for men. Approximately 56% of surveyed families are able to save, with an average savings rate of 11.9% of disposable income. The study attributes this heightened caution to uncertainty caused by inflation, geopolitical tensions, and the pandemic.

Adding to these financial pressures, an analysis by CGIA di Mestre shows that consumer credit provided to Italian families approached 178 billion euros in 2025, a 62% increase over the previous nine years. When including 447.5 billion euros in mortgages, total household debt reaches 612.6 billion euros. 

The CGIA reports that inflation has eroded purchasing power because wages and pensions have remained largely stagnant while prices have risen. This has forced many families, particularly the middle class, to rely on credit for immediate liquidity to cover unexpected expenses or to purchase durable goods like cars and appliances. Regional data indicates that Umbria leads in consumer debt per household.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Italy consumer debt reaches 178 billion euros amid inflation

Italian consumer credit has reached 178 billion euros in 2025, a 62% increase in nine years, as inflation and stagnant wages drive families to use loans for living expenses and durable goods.

21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-households-show-rising-risk-aversion-in-2026

### 2026-09-15: Italy aging perception study: 26% of 25-34 year olds begin thinking about aging

Research by Hearts United shows 26% of Italians aged 25-34 begin thinking about aging, driven by shifting social milestones and economic pressures rather than biological changes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-aging-perception-study-26-of-25-34-year-olds-begin-thinking-about-aging

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Cite as: Italian household financial risk and debt trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-household-financial-risk-aversion-trends