GfK’s Index Shows Mixed Signals and Cautious Consumers

  • UK consumer confidence improves in September
  • GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index increased two points to -12
  • Index measuring changes in personal finances during the last 12 months increased by three points to +2
  • General economic situation measure for the last 12 months increased by two points to -32, down from September 2018
  • Expectations for general economic situation over the next 12 months increased three points to -35
  • Joe Staton: Consumers feel less positive about personal finances and economy
  • Purchase intentions and wallets show anaemic growth
  • Overall Index scores have been negative since Brexit referendum

The GfK Consumer Confidence Index has shown a slight improvement in the UK, increasing two points to -12 in September. The index measuring changes in personal finances over the past year rose three points to +2, while the measure for the general economic situation during the last 12 months increased by two points but remains four points lower than September 2018. Expectations for the economy over the next 12 months also increased three points to -35. Joe Staton, client strategy director at GfK, commented that consumers are still cautious about their personal finances and the overall economy. He added that since the Brexit referendum, there has been a continuous trend of negative Overall Index scores. As we approach October 31st, British consumers seem to be treading water.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the changes in the Consumer Confidence Index and includes relevant quotes from an expert on the topic.
Noise Level: 2
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the Consumer Confidence Index and its changes over time, with quotes from an expert on the topic. It is focused on the subject matter and does not contain irrelevant or filler content.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Consumer confidence and personal finances
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the GfK Consumer Confidence Index, which measures changes in personal finances and the general economic situation, impacting consumer behavior and potentially affecting spending patterns.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text.

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