Dutch consumers slightly less pessimistic

The mood among Dutch consumers was somewhat less negative in September than in August. The consumer confidence indicator climbed 3 points and reached -29. Although the mood has lifted a little after the trough in June, consumer confidence is still at a low ebb. The consumer confidence indicator averaged -8 over the last twenty years.

Consumer confidence

Consumer confidence

Consumer confidence improved, because Dutch consumers were less pessimistic about the economic climate in general in September. This component indicator climbed 8 points to reach -44.

On balance, willingness to buy remained stable in September relative to August. Consumer thought the time was more favourable to buy expensive items, like washing machines and television sets, but they were more negative about their own financial situation over the next twelve months. The component indicator willingness-to-buy remained unchanged at -20.

Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted

Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted

For more information on Dutch consumer confidence, also see Statistics Netherlands’ online video on YouTube.

More figures can be found in the Business cycle dossier.

For more information on economic indicators, the reader is referred to the Economic Monitor.