Decline in consumer sentiment at a high level
The consumer sentiment index for April fell sharply compared to January. This was revealed by the quarterly survey of approximately 1,100 households conducted by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
The consumer sentiment index in April (+2) fell sharply compared to January (+14). This was the result of the quarterly survey of around 1,100 households conducted by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). Despite the marked decline, the index remains above its long-term average (1972-2008) of -8 points. In particular, the assessment of the past general economic situation was significantly worse in April (+2) than in January (+31), according to the Seco statement. The households surveyed also assessed their financial situation over the past 12 months less favorably in April (-4) than in January (+4). Households' expectations regarding their future financial situation did not change (+7).
The price trend over the past 12 months was estimated to be slightly higher in April than in January (from +92 to +96). However, price expectations for the next 12 months have fallen (from +85 to +80). These two indicators are currently only slightly above their long-term averages.
The price trend over the past 12 months was estimated to be slightly higher in April than in January (from +92 to +96). However, price expectations for the next 12 months have fallen (from +85 to +80). These two indicators are currently only slightly above their long-term averages.
