Belgian Business Sentiment Edges Higher in September, NBB Climate Indicator Rises to -12.1

Belgium’s business morale showed a modest improvement in September, with the National Bank of Belgium (NBB) business climate indicator rising to -12.1 from -13.2 in August 2026. The updated data, released on 24 September 2026, signal a slight easing of pessimism among Belgian firms, though sentiment remains firmly in negative territory.

The September reading suggests that while companies are still cautious about the economic outlook, the degree of pessimism has lessened compared with the previous month. This incremental uptick may point to stabilizing expectations in key sectors, as businesses adapt to prevailing economic conditions.

Despite the improvement, the indicator’s continued negative level underlines ongoing challenges for Belgium’s corporate sector and the broader economy. Investors and policymakers will be watching subsequent releases to see whether September’s move marks the start of a more sustained recovery in business confidence.