Public confidence in Pakistan’s overall economic situation remains low, although optimism regarding personal financial conditions has increased significantly. These findings were revealed in the Ipsos Consumer Confidence Index Survey for the fourth quarter of 2025.
According to the survey, only 18% of Pakistanis consider the economy to be strong, and just one in five citizens believes that the country’s economic conditions are improving. Similarly, only 16% of people feel confident about investing in the future. Men, youth, and affluent groups were found to be relatively more optimistic.
Ipsos released the survey at a time when State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmed recently stated that the current economic growth model cannot support a population of 250 million. Likewise, SIFC Coordinator Lieutenant General Sarfraz Ahmed admitted that the country lacks a clear “growth plan.”
The report notes a slight improvement in overall confidence, but it remains lower than the temporary surge seen after the Pakistan-India conflict and has only returned to pre-conflict levels. The survey also revealed that 89% of Pakistanis feel dissatisfied with household purchasing power. However, residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were found relatively more confident at 18%, compared to the national average of around 10%.
According to Ipsos, inflation remains the biggest concern for the public, with its importance rising by 6% compared to the previous quarter. People also remain uncertain about making major purchases. On a positive note, personal financial optimism has reached a historic level for the second consecutive quarter, with young people particularly expecting financial improvement.
Regarding the direction of the country, one in three Pakistanis believes that Pakistan is moving in the right direction. Confidence was higher in Punjab, rural areas, men, and wealthier groups. After the Pakistan-India conflict, confidence had surged temporarily but has now returned to pre-conflict levels.
According to the survey, one in three Pakistanis expects the economy to strengthen in the next six months, while Sindh was identified as the most pessimistic province in this regard.
Nearly half of Pakistanis expect their personal financial situation to improve in the next six months. Job security has also shown slight improvement, with 22% of respondents believing their employment is secure.
