Irish consumer sentiment has inched higher in June, rising above the historical average of the series for the first time in two years as the economy slowly reopens, a survey has shown.
The KBC Bank Ireland consumer sentiment index rose to 87.2 in June from 85.8 in May, its strongest level since June 2019 and above the 25-year series average of 86.8.
Fifth Successive Monthly Increase
The move marked the fifth successive monthly increase after confidence slumped in January following the re-imposition of COVID-19 restrictions. Restrictions are being gradually eased with indoor dining and drinking planned to resume on July 5.
"These results suggest the shadow of the pandemic is gradually lifting from the economy and, as a result, Irish consumers are becoming less concerned about their current circumstances as well as less fearful about the future," KBC Ireland chief economist Austin Hughes said.
Concerns
Hughes added that while the reopening of parts of the economy did contribute to a clear easing in nervousness about the general outlook for the economy, concerns are emerging about future financial circumstances for some.
Weaker expectations for household finances, including debt burden and disposable income, over the coming year was the only negative sub section of the survey in June, the data showed.
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