ING Forecasts 1.5% GDP Growth for Hungary in 2026 - Budapest Business Journal

ING forecasts Hungary’s GDP growth to reach 1.5% in 2026, citing support from consumption. The analysis says that by next year, all segments of the economy could contribute to growth, leading to a more balanced expansion and a 2.6% GDP increase in 2027. The report describes the inflation backdrop as favorable and expects the forint could stabilize in the HUF 350–360 range versus the euro by the end of this year, even as the National Bank of Hungary’s rate-cut cycle has started. Inflation is projected at 3.8% in 2027 and then easing to 3.1% in 2028. ING also highlights that confidence remains supported by the new government and a favorable yield environment, but warns that challenges for euro adoption include inflation convergence, labor shortages, energy supply uncertainty and the need to meet euro-entry conditions, potentially in 2030–2034.