Since the start of the year, France has been experiencing record inflation for decades: 5.2% at an annual rate at the end of May, according to INSEE. This rise in the consumer price index has multiple consequences: weakened purchasing power, lower consumption, unfavorable savings conditions. According to the latest monthly barometer of the economy Odoxa, Abeille Assurances, Challenges, BFM Business, the economic morale of the French is at half mast (70% defiant). They are eagerly awaiting the entry into force of the series of measures aimed at improving their purchasing power.

A study by the association 60 Millions de consommateurs reveals that the average additional cost in the budget of the French represents 90 € each month. However, according to the CSA Research / Cofidis barometer published on May 12, households believe that they lack 490 euros per month to be financially comfortable. This is 21 euros more than last year. However, the disparities between households are large. The situation is of course much more complicated for modest French people. As for the most fragile profiles, they become even more so.

In this context, for those who still can, is it still good to save on bank books, even though they make you lose money? “One thing is certain, we must continue to save”, assures Olivia Egger, manager of the heritage engineering division at the Caisse d’épargne Languedoc-Roussillon, in the columns of Midi Libre. “Inflation certainly leads to a decline in purchasing power, but we can continue to save by diversifying.”

Find out how in our slideshow below.