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CALGARY — Consumer confidence in Canada remains stuck at neutral levels, though sentiment in Alberta and across the Prairies is holding up better than in several other parts of the country, according to new data from the Bloomberg Nanos Canadian Confidence Index
The weekly index registered at 50.00 as of Jan. 2, a level indicating an even split between positive and negative economic views. National confidence has hovered around that mark through much of the past year, well below long-term historical averages, suggesting households remain cautious about their finances, job security and the broader economy.
Regional results show a clearer divide. The Prairies, which include Alberta, posted an economic mood reading of 52.68, placing the region in positive territory and well above Ontario at 45.37 and British Columbia at 47.17. Quebec recorded the strongest confidence nationally at 55.01.
The index is built from weekly surveys of roughly 1,000 Canadians and tracks perceptions of personal finances, employment security, economic strength and local real estate values. A score above 50 signals net optimism, while readings below that mark indicate pessimism.
Nanos Research chief data scientist Nik Nanos said national confidence continues to be weighed down by concerns in central Canada and British Columbia, where households report weaker outlooks tied to housing affordability and economic uncertainty
In contrast, Alberta’s relatively stronger showing reflects more resilient views on employment and income stability. Job security across Canada remained comparatively high, with about 60 per cent of respondents describing their employment situation as secure or somewhat secure, though that figure has softened from levels seen earlier in the year.
Expectations for the Canadian economy, however, remain subdued. Fewer than one in four respondents said they expect economic conditions to improve over the next six months, while more than 40 per cent anticipate a weaker economy. Real estate expectations were mixed, with most Canadians predicting prices will either stay the same or decline.
The Bloomberg Nanos Expectations Index, which has historically acted as a leading indicator for GDP growth, remained below 50 nationally, signalling limited near-term optimism for economic acceleration.
For Alberta, the data suggests consumer confidence is holding steady rather than accelerating, offering a measure of stability amid broader national uncertainty. Analysts say sustained gains in confidence would likely require clearer signs of easing inflation pressures and stronger income growth.
The survey was conducted using random telephone interviews and carries a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20
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