Economy

New polling data from Ipsos in the UK, conducted 17-21 April 2026, reveals high levels of public anxiety as the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz begins to disrupt global supply chains. The British public is particularly concerned about the personal financial toll on food and petrol, while expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s response to rising prices.

The latest Ipsos Economic Optimism Index (EOI) reveals that net economic optimism in Britain has fallen to the lowest levels ever recorded since Ipsos began collecting this data in 1978. In the latest data, collected 8-14 April 2026, 78% of Britons expect the economy to get worse over the next 12 months (up 3ppts since last month), the highest level recorded since the Index began.

The March 2026 Ipsos Issues Index reveals a sharp increase in public concern about defence and foreign affairs.

New polling from Ipsos finds slight improvements in economic outlook among businesses and the general public but many concerns remain. Fieldwork was carried out before the Spring Statement and recent conflict in the Middle East.

Young men are more likely to have engaged in cryptocurrency investments and gambling activities than young women. However, they are also more likely to view cryptocurrency as riskier than other investments.

Britons’ top four issues facing the country have remained the same since August: immigration first, followed by the economy, the NHS, and inflation.

The latest survey from Ipsos in the UK, taken following this week’s budget, explores public attitudes to the budget overall (and key measures within it) as well as the economy overall.

Fifty per cent name immigration as an important issue for Britain. The economy and NHS remain the second- and third-biggest issues, mentioned by 35% and 25% respectively.

Half (51%) of Britons now say they feel worse off since Labour was elected – but confidence in any of the main parties’ economic plans is low.