France: Consumer sentiment stable in February
In February, consumer sentiment was stable at January’s 104. As such, the index remained above the 100-threshold—its long-term average.
Notably, unemployment fears decreased to their lowest point since July 2007 in February, while consumers’ perception of their current and expected savings capacity improved somewhat against the backdrop of lower household taxes, which came into effect at the start of this year. In addition, their attitude towards their past and future standard of living grew less gloomy. In contrast, consumers’ expected financial situation in the coming year soured, as did their willingness to buy big-ticket household items.