Consumer Confidence Tumbles To New Low In September

GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index decreased five points in September to -49, setting yet another record low. Four measures were down in comparison to the August 19th announcement, and one was flat.

Joe Staton, Client Strategy Director, GfK says:

“UK Consumer Confidence tumbled in September to a new low of -49, the worst Overall Index Score since records began in 1974. There have been new lows in four out of the last five months and all measures are once again severely depressed. Especially worrying are the two key future-facing indicators on personal finances in the coming year (down nine points to -40) and the economy in the next 12 months (down eight to -68). These numbers are where many forecasters look for signs of economic optimism among consumers and the results deliver very bad news in that respect. Consumers are buckling under the pressure of the UK’s growing cost-of-living crisis driven by rapidly rising food prices, domestic fuel bills and mortgage payments. They are asking themselves when and how the situation will improve. Today’s mini-budget, and the longer-term agenda to drive the economy and help rebalance household finances, will be the first major opportunity to deliver that improvement. It will also be a major test for the popularity of Liz Truss’s new Government.”

UK Consumer Confidence Measures – August 2022

The Overall Index Score decreased five points in September to -49, setting yet another record low. Four measures were down in comparison to the August 19th announcement, and one was flat.

Personal Financial Situation

The index measuring changes in personal finances over the last 12 months fell three points to -28; this is 24 points worse than September 2021. 

The forecast for personal finances over the next 12 months has decreased nine points to -40; this is 45 points lower than this time last year.

General Economic Situation

The measure for the general economic situation of the country during the last 12 months is down four points at -72; this is 29 points lower than in September 2021.  

Expectations for the general economic situation over the coming 12 months have deteriorated with an eight-point drop to -68; this is 52 points lower than September 2021.

Major Purchase Index

The Major Purchase Index is unchanged this month at -38; this is 32 points lower than this month last year.

Savings Index

The Savings Index is down seven points this month at +11; this is 11 points lower than this time last year.

Source : GfK

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