Budget mood check: ET survey flags confidence in consumption, but anxiety over jobs and global risks
Ahead of the Union Budget 2026, an Economic Times survey of over 5,000 respondents shows optimism about India’s growth fundamentals led by domestic consumption, while job creation and external shocks remain top concerns. Many respondents favour fiscal flexibility over rigid deficit targets.
What the survey found
An Economic Times Budget Survey 2026, published January 25, 2026, reports broad confidence in India’s growth drivers—particularly domestic consumption—while highlighting persistent worries on jobs, inequality and geopolitical risks.
The survey indicates that many respondents prefer fiscal flexibility in Budget planning, rather than sticking to strict deficit paths regardless of economic conditions.
Why it matters
- The findings underscore that employment is likely to be a central yardstick for judging Budget 2026 measures.
- Global volatility and geopolitical tensions are shaping expectations around trade, inflation and investment.
What to watch next
Market attention is likely to focus on Budget moves that address hiring and income growth—along with signals on fiscal stance amid external uncertainty.