Italy heading for hung parliament as populist parties make big gains

European political risk rises

clock • 2 min read

European political risk has risen as projections for the Italian election result point to deadlock, following a surge in support for the eurosceptic Five Star Movement and anti-immigration Northern League.

With votes still being counted, ex-Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's centre right coalition looks set to win the most seats in the lower house of parliament at around 248-268, but this is well below the 316 needed for a majority. However, the Five Star Movement appears likely to be Italy's biggest single party, with 32% of the vote. There was also a surge in support for the Northern League, led by  Matteo Salvini, which is on track to beat Forza Italia and gain 17% of the vote to become the main conservative party in Italy. David Zahn: Looking to the Italian election and future EC...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

Inflation falls faster than predicted ahead of BoE interest rate vote

Inflation falls faster than predicted ahead of BoE interest rate vote

3.2% in November

Michael Nelson
clock 17 December 2025 • 2 min read
FCA's Rathi addresses Autumn Budget market abuse concerns

FCA's Rathi addresses Autumn Budget market abuse concerns

Pens open letter to Treasury Committee

Isabel Baxter
clock 04 December 2025 • 2 min read
More tax, less shelter: A slow-burn Budget for savers and investors

More tax, less shelter: A slow-burn Budget for savers and investors

'The Budget documents make for sobering reading for those trying to build up their wealth'

Laith Khalaf
clock 04 December 2025 • 3 min read