The European Central Bank (ECB) announced today that 14% of companies surveyed in the second quarter reported a decrease in bank loan interest rates, compared to 12% who indicated an increase in the previous survey.
This suggests that the easing of monetary policy is being passed on to companies, stated the ECB.
However, 16% of companies surveyed by the ECB regarding their access to financing reported that other financing costs, such as fees, rates, and commissions, as well as collateral requirements, increased (24% in the previous survey).
The financing needs of eurozone companies and the availability of that bank credit remain stable.
Eurozone companies expect a one-year inflation rate of 2.5%, down from 2.9% in the previous survey.
Inflation expectations for companies at three and five years remained at 3%.
Most companies reported being affected, to some extent, by trade tensions, particularly those that export heavily to the U.S. and those in the manufacturing sector.
About 30% of eurozone companies are concerned about delays or shortages in supply chains and find it necessary to resort to alternative suppliers.
Eurozone companies are looking to focus their sales within the region and the broader European Union (EU), restructuring supply chains to adapt to changes in global trade.
The ECB surveyed 5,367 eurozone companies between May 30 and June 27, 2025, 92% of which had fewer than 250 employees.
