Dutch consumers less pessimistic

Consumers were obviously less pessimistic about the economic climate in July than in June. This component indicator of consumer confidence improved by 15 points to reach -50. Despite July’s substantial improvement, confidence in the economic situation remains at a low level with an average of -16 over the past two decades. Consumers were in particular less negative about the economic situation over the next twelve months, but their opinions about the economic situation over the past twelve months also improved substantially.

The component indicator willingness-to-buy  improved in July relative to June. This indicator climbed by 4 points to -19. Consumers’ opinions on their own financial situation over the next 12 months improved considerably by 12 points, whereas consumers’ confidence in their own financial situation over the past 12 months improved marginally. On the other hand, consumers thought the time was less favourable than in June to buy purchase durable goods.

Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted