Netherlands: Consumer confidence deteriorates in August
The consumer confidence index fell from 2 in July to 0 in August, consequently falling from optimistic to neutral territory. Consumer confidence has deteriorated notably over the past year against a backdrop of global trade tensions and weaker growth in the Euro area. Nevertheless, consumer sentiment remained above the long-term average over the last 20 years of minus 4.
The dip in consumer confidence was mainly driven by a sharp worsening of consumers’ views regarding the economic climate, while consumers’ views of the labor market also worsened noticeably. That said, consumers’ willingness to buy edged up as households cited the current time more favorable for purchasing big ticket items.