Consumers again slightly more negative

With a headline figure of -24, the consumer confidence indicator for June is positioned well below its long-term average over the previous twenty years (-10). The indicator reached an all-time high (36) in January 2000, while an all-time low (-59) was reached in September and October 2022. Since April 1986, CBS has monitored consumer confidence every month, based on the consumer survey. Consumer confidence is assessed using 5 questions, taking the balance of positive and negative responses to each question. If all consumers are positive, the balance is 100. If all consumers are negative, the balance is -100.

Consumers more pessimistic about the economy

Consumers are more pessimistic about the economy in July than they were in June. This component of the indicator fell to -39, compared to -38 in June. Both consumers’ assessment of the economic situation over the previous twelve months and their assessment of the economic outlook for the next twelve months has deteriorated.

Willingness to buy remained virtually the same

Like in June, willingness to buy was -14. Consumers’ opinions on their personal financial situation over the previous 12 months remained virtually unchanged, while their assessment of the next 12 months has deteriorated. Consumers were also more negative about making large purchases in July than they were in June.