Keywords: Households


Hunger in South Africa reaches its highest level since 2010

Hunger in South Africa reached its highest reported level since 2010 in 2025, highlighting the continued pressure on household budgets despite a slowdown in food price inflation. According to the 2026 South African Food Security Index, 12% of households reported experiencing hunger last year, compared......

IMF warns prolonged pressure on household purchasing power as basic costs remain elevated

The International Monetary Fund has warned that households around the world could face prolonged pressure on their purchasing power as the prices of essential goods remain elevated compared with other products. In a recent publication accompanying a new report, the IMF said a series of global shocks,......

Italy unveils new plan to curb fuel prices while protecting public finances

The Italian government is set to introduce a new package of measures aimed at limiting the impact of soaring fuel prices, as rising energy costs place increasing pressure on households, businesses and the country's public finances. The proposals, expected to be approved by the cabinet in Rome, come......

France economy expected to grow 0.7% amid Middle East conflict, Insee says

France’s economy is expected to grow by 0.7% this year despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to a new economic forecast released by the national statistics institute Insee. The institution notes that the conflict has triggered a sharp rise in oil and energy prices,......

Public service salaries for May to be paid early ahead of Eid al-Adha

The Moroccan government is preparing to advance the payment of May 2026 salaries for civil servants and public sector employees ahead of Eid al-Adha, according to general administrative sources. This decision, which is often taken during major religious celebrations, aims to support households in managing......

Inflation rises in April, reaching 2.2% year-on-year

Inflation accelerated again in April, reaching 2.2% year-on-year, according to preliminary estimates published by the national statistics institute. This increase marks a sharp rise compared to the 0.3% recorded in January, reflecting renewed pressure on prices in recent months. The surge is largely......

Energy prices push German consumer sentiment to a three-year low

German consumer confidence is expected to decline further in May, reaching its lowest level in three years, as rising energy costs continue to weigh heavily on household finances. According to a recent survey conducted by market research institutions, the consumer sentiment index dropped significantly......

India relaxes kerosene regulations to address energy supply disruptions

The Indian government announced on Sunday a relaxation of petroleum safety and licensing regulations to accelerate the distribution of kerosene to households, responding to global energy supply disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran. According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural......

Starmer calls emergency meeting over cost-of-living pressures linked to Iran conflict

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, is set to convene an emergency meeting next week to address the growing cost-of-living pressures linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. According to media reports, the meeting will bring together senior government ministers along with Andrew......