The number of those planning a major purchase in the next twelve months has reportedly increased by three percentage points to 36 percent, particularly among 14- to 29-year-olds (51 percent, plus twelve percentage points) who are ready to spend.

The reason for this more generous handling of money is the fallen credit interest rates. However, the amounts of borrowed money have significantly increased. According to the survey, the average planned loan amount is expected to be around 153,000 euros, up from "only" 105,000 euros a year ago.

Low Belief in Economic Upturn

At the same time, the average planned investment amount is decreasing. While it was around 5,600 euros in the fourth quarter of last year, it is 4,000 euros this year, the bank calculated on Wednesday in a press release. The number of bank customers planning an investment in 2025 remains almost unchanged: 83 percent want to do this, with the age group from 14 to 29 even at 94 percent. 61 percent of savers rely on the savings account, while 35 percent use building savings.

According to the survey, only a quarter of respondents believe in an economic recovery in Austria. Gerda Holzinger-Burgstaller, head of Erste Bank, is optimistic: "The low point seems to have been passed and we expect a return to slightly positive GDP development this year." For the year 2025, Erste Group predicts a moderate GDP growth of 0.6 percent, and an increase of 0.9 percent for 2026.

(APA/Red)

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