Dutch consumer confidence slips slightly in October

Consumer confidence in the Netherlands slipped slightly in October, falling to -34 from -33 in September, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). The small decline reflected slightly more negative views of the economy and households’ own finances, although consumers judged the time for major purchases a little more favourably.

The overall reading remains well below the average of -12 recorded over the past 20 years. The index measures the balance between positive and negative answers to monthly questions about the economy, personal finances and whether it is a good time to make large purchases. It ranges from -100 to +100.

The economic climate sub-index edged down to -59 from -58. Views of the economy over the past 12 months worsened, while expectations for the coming year were unchanged at -50.

The willingness-to-buy measure fell to -18 from -17. Respondents were more negative about their financial situation over both the past and coming 12 months. However, the balance of views on whether it was a good time for major purchases improved slightly, to -34 from -35.

The confidence index reached a low of -59 in September and October 2022 and a high of +36 in January 2000, CBS said.