Consumer confidence unchanged

At -2, the consumer confidence indicator in December stands above its long-term average over the past two decades (-4). The indicator reached an all-time high in January 2000 (36) and an all-time low in March 2013 (-41).

Willingness to buy unchanged, opinions on economic climate deteriorated slightly

Consumers’ willingness to buy has not changed in December. This component indicator stands at 1, the same as in the two previous months. Opinions on their financial situation over the past twelve months have improved, while opinions on their financial situation in the coming twelve months have not changed. However, consumers find this a slightly less favourable time to make large purchases.

The component indicator Economic climate has deteriorated slightly: from -5 in November to -8 in December. Consumers are slightly less positive about the economic climate in the past twelve months and slightly more negative about the economic climate in the coming twelve months.

Not a good time to save

Consumers are also asked whether they consider it a good time to save or not. In December, 31 percent of the respondents consider the time right to save, whereas 63 percent consider it a bad time to put money aside. As a result, the balance is -32. In the past three years, consumers have not been so negative about saving.