Hungarian consumer sentiment strengthened notably in February 2026, as the Thomson Reuters IPSOS Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) climbed to 40.53 from 36.12 in January 2026. The latest reading, updated on 12 February 2026, shows a solid month-over-month improvement in households’ perceptions of the economy, personal finances and future outlook.
On a month-over-month basis, the February “actual” figure reflects a stronger pickup in sentiment compared with the “previous” period, when January’s 36.12 reading was measured against December. The acceleration suggests that Hungarian consumers entered February with more confidence than at the start of the year, potentially supporting spending and broader economic activity if the trend continues.
Market watchers will be monitoring whether this upswing in the PCSI can be sustained in the coming months, as consumer sentiment is a key forward-looking indicator for Hungary’s domestic demand and overall economic momentum.
