In view of the current situation, SECO is publishing provisional results on consumer sentiment in April outside the normal schedule.* These show that Swiss consumer sentiment has fallen from −9 points in January to −40 points. The only other time consumer sentiment values have been this low was in the early 1990s.

Respondents’ expectations regarding general economic development have deteriorated severely, with the relevant sub-index declining to a record low of −84 points. Respondents are also getting ready for tough times in terms of their own budget. The sub-index on expected financial situation comes in at −24 points, with similar values so far only being observed in the early 1990s.

Finally, the question about whether now is a good time to make major purchases has received a more negative response than ever before. The relevant sub-index stands at −48 points, which reflects both the closure of numerous businesses due to the extraordinary situation and the particularly high uncertainty.

* The final results will be published on 5 May.

Consumer sentiment at record low