Argentina: Consumer sentiment steady in March
The Universidad Torcuato di Tella (UTDT) consumer confidence index came in at 43.8 points in March, matching the print observed in February. The index is currently below the 50-point threshold that separates pessimistic from optimistic sentiment among consumers, where it has been almost uninterruptedly since January 2016.
March’s reading reflected consumers’ mixed views on the economy. While their outlook on their personal financial situations and the macroeconomic situation improved over the previous month, their willingness to purchase durable goods and big-ticket household items (appliances, cars and houses) declined in month-on-month terms. Similarly, their assessment of present economic conditions deteriorated in March.