Euro-area government deficit edges up to 3.3% of GDP in second quarter
Eurostat's provisional seasonally adjusted data show the euro-area general-government deficit at 3.3% of GDP in Q2 2026, up from 3.2%, with the EU measure at 3.5%.
The forces moving economies, from inflation and employment to policy and global growth.
Eurostat's provisional seasonally adjusted data show the euro-area general-government deficit at 3.3% of GDP in Q2 2026, up from 3.2%, with the EU measure at 3.5%.
European Central Bank blog says the euro area absorbed this year's energy price rise through lower oil reliance, fiscal support and AI-driven trade, with risks ahead.
ECB data show the euro area current account surplus narrowed to €9bn in August 2026, down €18bn from July, with the 12-month surplus at €250bn, or 1.5% of GDP.
Eurostat confirms euro-area annual inflation at 3.8% in September 2026, up from 3.2% in August, with energy the largest contributor.
Eurostat's first estimates show the euro-area goods trade deficit at €16.1 billion in August 2026, versus €1.7 billion a year earlier, as imports grew faster than exports.
ECB President Christine Lagarde told the IMFC that the energy shock is too large to ignore but a measured policy response remains appropriate, with inflation risks to the upside.
IMF's October 2026 outlook forecasts 3.1% global growth for 2026 and 3.4% for 2027, with inflation at 4.7% and 4.1%, and warns of downside risks.
ECB data show euro area household saving rate fell to 14.4% in Q2 2026 as consumption grew faster than disposable income, while NFC financing accelerated.
ECB data show the euro area current account surplus fell to €265bn (1.6% of GDP) in the year to Q2 2026, while net international investment assets rose to €1.94tn.
IMF regional outlook says strong US demand, commodity prices and remittances are sustaining growth, while high public debt and trade uncertainty weigh on prospects.