Belgian consumer confidence weakens for the second month

BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) – Belgian consumer confidence eroded for the second consecutive month in December, reaching its lowest level of the year, while concerns about unemployment rose sharply, according to data from a survey by the National Bank of Belgium published Thursday.

The consumer confidence index fell to -9 from -8 in November.

The index reflecting unemployment fears for the next 12 months jumped from 25 to 32, the highest figure this year.

Consumer expectations regarding the economic situation in Belgium for the next 12 months remained stable, with the index stable at -24.

The sub-index of expectations on the financial situation weakened by -2 against -1.

Household saving intentions increased as the corresponding subindex rose from 19 to 21, reaching its highest level since the start of the year.