The index rose to -10.7 points in April from -13.9 points in the previous month, data published on GKI's website show.

Petz noted that the survey for the gauge was conducted in the first half of the month and reflected expectations ahead of the April 12 election rather than the contest's outcome.

GKI's business confidence index rose to -8.5 points from -11.9 points, supported by improving sentiment in the commerce sector. Companies in business services were the most optimistic, while construction sector businesses were the most pessimistic.

Around 8pc of companies plan to make new hires, while 11pc expect to reduce headcount. Some 35pc of companies want to raise prices and just 5pc see price cuts in future.

GKI's consumer confidence index improved to -17.0 points from -19.5 points.

The consumer confidence index was over the average for the period 2019-2026, said researcher Attila Udvardi. Outlooks for the economy are improving among households, but assessments of their own financial situations, ability to make savings and plans for big-ticket purchases have changed little over the past two years, he added.

Photo: Pixabay.com

Source: MTI – Hungary’s national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.

Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.

XpatLoop believes in empowering readers to form their own views through complete and comprehensive coverage. To facilitate this XpatLoop has a balanced range of news partners, as you can see when you surf around XpatLoop.com

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