Irish Consumers Stay Positive In April

The overall KBC Ireland/ESRI Consumer Sentiment Index increased in April to 98.7 from 97.8 in March. The 3-month moving average fell marginally from 98.3 in March to 97.6 in April.

Commenting on the results Ciara Morley, ESRI, said

“Consumer sentiment continues to increase for the third month in a row with April’s reading amongst the highest recorded since early 2006. Despite the fact that the 3-month moving average is down slightly this month the overall trend suggests a positive improvement in consumer’s expectations for the future.”

“While all five components of the survey have increased substantially in the year to April we do observe some caution amongst consumers this month with regard to the outlook for general economic situation. Overall, the Index of Consumer Expectations increased slightly to 91.8 this month from 89.6 in March.”

“The Index of Current Economic Conditions, based on how consumers feel about their current financial circumstance compared to 12 months ago, as well as their perception of the current buying environment for large household purchases, declined this month from 110 in March to 109. The decline reflects a more negative attitude by consumers towards the current purchasing environment for major household durables.”