Euro Area Bank Lending Survey Q1 2026 Results

This document is a technical report detailing the findings of the euro area bank lending survey for the first quarter of 2026. It outlines the reported tightening of credit standards for loans to firms, with a net percentage of 10% indicating a further net tightening, which is above historical averages. The report notes that perceived risks to the economic outlook and lower risk tolerance among banks are key factors contributing to this tightening. Additionally, it highlights that banks expect a continued tightening trend in the second quarter of 2026. The report also discusses the trends in housing loans and consumer credit, indicating a small tightening of credit standards for housing loans and a more significant tightening for consumer credit. The document presents data on loan demand, revealing a slight decrease in demand for loans to firms and a strong decrease in consumer credit demand. The report concludes with insights into banks' access to funding and the impact of securitisation on lending.