ECB survey finds tighter business-lending standards in third quarter
Euro area banks reported tighter business and consumer-credit standards and weaker loan demand in the ECB’s October survey.
What the record says
The October 27 release reports a net 9% of banks tightening standards for business loans during the third quarter, and a net 14% tightening consumer-credit standards. Housing-loan standards were unchanged on balance.
The survey covered 159 banks between September 21 and October 6. Banks expected further tightening in the fourth quarter; that expectation is separate from their reported third-quarter changes.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Read the ECB’s survey for definitions and results.
Limits and what is not established
Net percentages compare banks reporting tightening with those reporting easing; they are not percentage changes in loan volumes.
Sources checked October 28, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
European Central Bank: original information