Consumer Sentiment Index

Consumer Sentiment Index September 2025

Sentiment steady in September as consumers await Budget

Overview:
Irish consumer sentiment remained broadly unchanged in September 2025, with the Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index edging slightly higher to 61.7 from 61.1 in August. This reflects a cautious but stable mood among consumers, characterized as “concern rather than collapse.” Sentiment remains well below last year’s level (71.9) and the long-term average (83.8).

Key Findings

• Drivers of Caution:

  • Uncertainty around Budget 2026, global economic outlook, and US tariffs.
  • Concerns about rising grocery and energy costs, though some relief came from stable or reduced energy prices during the survey period.
  • Public discourse on Ireland’s fiscal position and debt sustainability added to economic anxiety.

• Household Finances:

  • Slight improvement in household finance perceptions despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
  • Employment remains strong, supporting incomes, but redundancy announcements and softer job outlook weigh on confidence.

• Consumer Expectations for Budget 2026:

  • Top Priorities:
    • Healthcare improvements (48%)
    • Housing (45%)
    • Cost-of-living supports (42%)
  • Other mentions: energy cost measures (31%), easing tax burden (27%).
  • Only 7% expect a significant boost to living standards; 51% expect no improvement.

• Spending Outlook:

  • No major change in big-ticket purchase plans; consumers remain in “watch and worry” mode.

Comparative Context

• Ireland’s sentiment stability contrasts with declines in the US and UK, where economic and fiscal concerns are more pronounced.
• Euro area confidence improved modestly but remains below historical norms.

Implications

• Consumers prioritize infrastructure and cost-of-living relief over fiscal prudence, reflecting immediate pressures and frustration with slow progress on housing and healthcare.
• Limited expectations for a “giveaway” Budget suggest tempered optimism despite government hints at more permanent, targeted supports.

pressures.

👉 Read the full report for deeper insights into the September survey findings.