Dutch consumers much less negative about the economy

Consumer confidence increased strongly in August. The indicator rose from -24 in July to -17 in August. Consumers were especially less pessimistic about the economic situation in the twelve months to come. Consumers’ willingness to buy slightly improved. Nevertheless, in August, too, there are still more pessimists than optimists.

Indicators consumer confidence

The evaluation of the economic climate improved considerably in August. The assessment of the economic situation in the twelve months to come improved very strongly. This sub-indicator rose by 22 points to -1 in August. In March 2009 it was -59. This less gloomy outlook for the economic future coincides with a recovery on the stock market. Opinions on the economic situation in the past twelve months were less negative in August compared to July.

Economic climate next twelve months, seasonally adjusted

Consumers’ willingness to buy improved slightly. Opinions on buying expensive items, such as washing machines or furniture, were less negative in August compared to July. Consumers’ assessments of their own financial situation, both in the past twelve months and in the twelve months to come, improved slightly.

Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted