Netherlands consumer confidence hits 9-1/2 high, spending growth eases slightly

Netherlands consumer confidence strengthened further in February, data from the Central Bureau of Statistics showed Monday.  Netherlands seasonally adjusted consumer confidence index rose to 14.0 in February from 13.0 in January to hit its highest since August 2007.

Dutch consumers were slightly more confident about the economy than in January. The corresponding index climbed to 29 from 28. The index measuring the willingness to buy also increased from 3 to 4 in February.

Meanwhile, Netherlands spending growth eased slightly in December. Data from the statistical office revealed that consumer spending grew 2.5 percent y/y in December, slower than the 2.7 percent y/y rise in November. The measure has been rising since October 2014.

Details of the report showed consumers spent more on consumer durables such as fridges, as well as furnishings and cars. The cold weather also boosted spending on gas for heating.