Epoch AI/Ipsos August 2026 poll
Ipsos released an August 2026 poll on how working Americans use AI in their jobs. The study looks at which AI services workers pay for, how much they edit AI output, and which tasks they delegate to AI instead of people. For European sales and marketing teams, the findings add context on how quickly AI is moving into day-to-day workflows and where human review still remains important.
Your Next Car Might Drive Better Than You: The Perception of AI in Automobiles
Ipsos says most consumers think cars already have too much technology, while trust in self-driving cars is rising slowly worldwide. In Europe, the report points to stronger scepticism, with France and Belgium among the least confident markets. That matters for automakers and suppliers because adoption of AI features will likely depend on gradual trust-building through driver-assistance systems rather than full autonomy.
Americans show signs of financial optimism alongside concerns about retirement
Ipsos said a new poll for Thrivent Financial found that many Americans feel financially secure and optimistic about their future, but concerns rise sharply when respondents think about retirement. Around four in ten non-retirees do not feel confident they will have enough saved to retire on time, while inflation and AI-driven job disruption are adding to the pressure. For Europe, the findings point to similar demand for retirement-planning products and financial advice, especially among younger consumers who feel behind.
Are younger Americans redefining success or rescheduling it?
Ipsos says younger Americans are not changing their definition of success, but are reaching milestones like marriage, homeownership and parenthood on a different timeline. The research matters for European brands because it reinforces a broader shift in life-stage planning that can affect demand, messaging and product design across markets. Sales and marketing teams should avoid assuming delayed milestones mean weaker ambition or lower purchase intent.
August 2026 LSEG/Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index
Ipsos said the August 2026 LSEG/Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 49.4, down 1.6 points from July. The Current and Investment sub-indices both declined, while the Jobs sub-index was flat.
The reading signals softer consumer confidence in the US, which matters for European companies watching demand trends and cross-border sentiment. For Sales and Marketing teams in Europe, weaker confidence can translate into more cautious spending and tighter campaign performance in consumer-facing sectors.
Vast majority of sports parents feel the benefits of youth sports outweigh the drawbacks
Ipsos/AP found that 89% of U.S. parents of children in organized sports say the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The poll matters for European sports brands, clubs, and sponsors because it points to a durable parent-led demand base, while also highlighting cost, travel, and scheduling pressures that are relevant in Europe too.