Nick Moon, managing director of GfK NOP Social Research, comments: "With an increasing number of indicators suggesting the economy is either stagnating or returning to recession, the continuing loss of consumer confidence is a major worry for the government. However, while there has been a 4-point drop in consumers' general view of the economic situation over the next 12 months, there has been a small improvement in how they view their own financial situations, suggesting that people are adapting to the austere economic climate."
The overall index score this month has decreased by 1 point to -31, 13 points lower than this time last year. Two of the measures saw small increases, 2 stayed at the same level as July 2011 and 1 measure decreased this month. The annual moving average drops 1 point to -25.
| Measure | August 2011 | July 2011 | August 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Index Score | -31 | -30 | -18 |
| Personal Financial situation over last 12 months | -24 | -25 | -12 |
| Personal Financial situation over next 12 months | -11 | -12 | -3 |
| General Economic situation over last 12 months | -57 | -57 | -43 |
| General Economic situation over next 12 months | -31 | -27 | -14 |
| Climate for major purchases | -31 | -31 | -20 |
The index measuring changes in personal finances during the last 12 months has increased 1 point this month to -24; this is 12 points lower than this time last year.
The forecast for personal finances over the next 12 months has increased by 1 point this month to -11; this is 8 points lower than August '10.
The measure for the general economic situation of the country during the last 12 months has stayed the same this month at -57; 14 points lower than this time last year.
An expectation for the general economic situation over the next 12 months has decreased by 4 points to -31, 17 points lower than August '10.
The major purchases measure has stayed the same this month, at -31, which is 11 points lower than this time last year.
The 'now is a good time to save' Index, has decreased 3 points to -10, which is 4 points lower than August '10.
About the survey
About GfK NOP
GfK NOP Ltd is part of the GfK Group and a leading market research agency in the UK and internationally. It is a renowned supplier of market information and insight, offering sector specialists and best-in-field research for qualitative, quantitative, ethnographic, omnibus and online research services.
Research carried out by GfK NOP on behalf of the European Commission
The GfK Association was established in 1934 as a non-profit organization for the promotion of market research. Its membership consists of approximately 600 companies and individuals. The purpose of the Association is to develop innovative research methods in close cooperation with academic institutions, to promote the training and further education of market researchers, to observe the structures and developments in society, the economy and politics that play a key role in private consumption, and to research their effects on consumers. Survey results are made available to the membership. The GfK Association is a shareholder in GfK SE.
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