Consumer confidence improves further
The mood among Dutch consumers improved marginally. The consumer confidence index stood at -5 in April, as against -7 in March. Again, consumers were more positive about the economic situation, but their willingness-to-buy remained invariably low. Consumer confidence has risen almost continuously since the summer of 2013 and is currently at the same level as at the beginning of 2011.
Consumer confidence
Consumers were more optimistic about the economic climate. Their opinions about the economic climate in the next twelve months improved marginally, whereas their opinions on the economic climate over the past 12 months were far less negative than in March. The component indicator Economic climate climbed 3 points to reach 7. The last time consumers were so confident about the economic situation was nearly 7 years ago.
Consumers thought the time to buy expensive items, like washing machines and TV sets, was just as unfavourable as in the preceding month. Their opinions about their own financial situation were also just as negative as in March. On balance, the component indicator Willingness-to-buy remained stable at -13. Willingness-to-buy is still at a low level.
Consumer confidence, seasonally adjusted
More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.
For more information on economic indicators, the reader is referred to the Economic Monitor.