Norwegian consumer sentiment deteriorated in the first quarter of 2026, with the consumer confidence indicator falling to -9.40 from -4.70 recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025. The latest reading, updated on 24 February 2026, signals a further weakening in household optimism about the economic outlook.
The shift from -4.70 to -9.40 suggests that more Norwegian consumers are now pessimistic about their financial situation and the broader economy than at the end of last year. While the indicator was already in negative territory in the fourth quarter of 2025, the deepening decline in the first quarter of 2026 underlines growing caution among households, with potential implications for consumption and retail activity going forward.
Analysts and market participants will be watching upcoming data releases closely to assess whether this downward trend in confidence persists, which could affect expectations for domestic demand and overall economic momentum in Norway for the remainder of 2026.
