UK Consumer Confidence Reaches Four-Month High Despite Economic Uncertainty

Survey shows slight improvement in personal financial outlook, but concerns over broader economic conditions persist.

The GfK Consumer Confidence Index rose by one point to -17 in December, marking its highest level since August 2024.
Households expressed increased optimism about personal finances for the next year, with this measure reaching positive territory for the first time in months.
Confidence in the general economy remains weak, with expectations for the next 12 months unchanged at -26, reflecting ongoing uncertainty.
The Major Purchase Index, which tracks sentiment around big-ticket spending, stayed steady at -16, indicating hesitation in consumer spending on larger items.
Economists note that while consumer confidence is recovering slowly, business sentiment has declined following October's budget, which included significant tax increases for employers.