Dutch consumers more optimistic
Recently, the mood among Dutch consumers has noticeably improved. In February, the consumer confidence index rose 3 points to reach -5. Confidence improved for the second month running after having risen 6 points in January.
Consumer confidence
Consumers were far less negative about the economic situation over the past 12 months than in January. Their opinions on the economy in the 12 months to come remained invariably positive. As a result, the component indicator economic climate rose by 4 points to reach +1.
Consumers’ willingness to buy also improved. This component indicator of consumer confidence improved by 3 points to -8. Consumers thought it was a more favourable time to buy expensive items and they were somewhat less negative about their own financial situation. Despite February’s improvements, willingness to buy is still at a low level.
More and more Dutch consumers anticipate higher prices in the next 12 months. In February, this applied to 7 out of every 10 consumers. Manufacturers expect to raise their prices in the months to come. For more information on this subject see the article “Manufacturers and consumers anticipate higher prices”.
Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted
More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.