Consumption Conditions

The visualisation of Consumption Conditions was developed by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) to analyse changes in household consumption in the Netherlands and place them in context. Six indicators, selected on the basis of econometric research, can be used to monitor whether conditions for Dutch household consumption have changed in a favourable or unfavourable direction.

Consumption conditions: more unfavourable

In March, conditions for Dutch household consumption were more unfavourable than in the previous month. New data have become available for six indicators. Three indicators deteriorated, two improved and remained the same. Household consumption is affected by consumers’ expectations, their personal financial situation and developments on the job market. Although the indicators show a strong correlation with household consumption, improved circumstances are not necessarily translated into increased growth.

Consumers were more negative about their financial situation in the next twelve months and about future unemployment. Manufacturers were less positive about future employment in their company than in the previous month. However, the year-on-year increase of the share prices was larger. The year-on-year growth of the employed labour force was also larger. The price increase year-on-year of owner-occupied dwellings was the same.

Related items

  • Explanatory notes: Consumption indicator - PDF