Dutch consumers more negative in November

With a headline figure of -25, the consumer confidence indicator for November is positioned well below its long-term average for 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, where the balance of positive and negative responses is taken from 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 November than they were in October. This component of the indicator fell to -43, compared to -37 in October. Consumers’ assessment of both the economic situation over the previous twelve months and the economic outlook for the next twelve months has deteriorated.

Willingness to buy virtually the same

Willingness to buy among consumers remained at -12 in November. Consumers’ opinions on their personal financial situation over the previous 12 months were more negative and their assessment of the next 12 months was also less positive. Consumers were equally negative about making large purchases in November than they were in October.