Dutch consumer sentiment was also gloomy in August

The Consumer Confidence Index for August was -24, well below the long-term average of the past 20 years (-10). The indicator reached an all-time high in January 2000 (36), and an all-time low in September and October 2022 (-59). CBS has monitored consumer confidence monthly based on consumer surveys since April 1986. Consumer confidence is assessed using 5 questions, taking the balance of positive and negative responses to each question. If all consumers are positive, the balance is 100. If all consumers are negative, the balance is -100.

Consumers more pessimistic about the economy

Consumers were more pessimistic about the economy in August than in July. This component of the indicator fell to -42 from -39 in July. Consumers’ assessment of economic conditions over the past 12 months and their assessment of the economic outlook for the next 12 months both deteriorated.

Purchase intention slightly decreased

Consumers’ purchasing intentions were -13 in August, up from -14 in July. Consumers’ views on their personal financial situations over the past 12 months improved slightly, while their assessments of the next 12 months improved slightly. Consumers also became less negative about large purchases in August compared to July.