As of October, the consumer sentiment index stands at –13 points, almost at the same level as in July (–12 points). The sentiment remains gloomy, coming in well below the long-term average of –5 points.

Expectations regarding general economic development have made little improvement compared to July, with the relevant sub-index standing at –14 points, indicating below-average momentum in the economy. Consumers were noticeably more negative in their rating of economic development in the last twelve months (–94 points) than in the previous survey.

The situation on the labour market is assessed as very unfavourable. The index on expected unemployment (112 points) remains close to the historic level reached during the financial and economic crisis. Job security (–122 points) has also received a worse assessment than in the previous survey for the third time in a row.

Respondents tended to make more negative statements about their own budget situation than in the summer. While expectations regarding their own financial situation (–7 points) have largely stagnated, the index on the financial situation in the last twelve months (–15 points) has dropped slightly. Both indices are significantly below their long-term average.

Accordingly, the likelihood of making major purchases remains well below average, with the relevant sub-index standing at –16 points. A key reason for this may be the high level of uncertainty.

No further recovery of consumer sentiment