UK Consumer Confidence Dips Again

The Consumer Confidence Index, based on research carried out by Martin Hamblin GfK on behalf of the European Commission, fell in August for the first time since March. The index is down two points to -3 despite a general improvement in the FTSE 100.



Almost all the individual ratings which make up the index registered slight falls, including perceptions of the development of personal finances over the last 12 months and expectations for them in the next 12; perceptions of the development of the general economic situation over the last 12 months and expectations for its next 12; perceptions concerning the climate for making major purchases and of the current savings climate.

Over half of the sample, 53%, now believe that the general economic situation has worsened over the past 12 months. Expectations for its development over the next 12 months, have decreased for the third month in a row to -15. The score is 8 points lower than this time last year, but not as low as scores seen earlier in the year.

The survey was conducted amongst a sample of 2000 individuals aged 16+, between 31st July and 19th August.