Dutch consumer confidence stagnant at -32 in August

Consumers in the Netherlands remained pessimistic in August, with the consumer confidence index unchanged at -32 from July, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). The headline figure is positioned far below the long-term average of -10 recorded over the past two decades.

CBS noted that the indicator, which has been tracked monthly since 1986, peaked at 36 in January 2000 and plunged to a record low of -59 in September and October 2022, CBS said in a release.

In August, consumers’ views on the economy were just as negative as in July, with the sub-indicator for the economic climate holding at -52. While households were slightly less negative about the outlook for the coming twelve months, they expressed greater pessimism about the economic situation over the past year.

Willingness to buy also remained subdued, unchanged at -19. Consumers were somewhat less negative about their expected personal finances for the next year, but more negative regarding their financial situation over the past twelve months. Their attitude towards making large purchases was equally pessimistic compared to July.

The consumer confidence index is compiled from five survey questions, balancing positive and negative responses. Scores range between +100 (all positive) and -100 (all negative).

ALCHEMPro News Desk (HU)