France: Consumer sentiment declines in March
In March, consumer sentiment declined to 103 from 104 in February, according to the Statistical Institute (INSEE). As such, the index remained above the 100-threshold—its long-term average. Nevertheless, the survey was completed on 17 March and thus It does not reflect the whole impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on consumers.
Consumers’ expected financial situation deteriorated in March, while concerns about unemployment jumped sharply. Major purchases intentions declined, while current and expected savings capacity rose form a month prior. Lastly, concerns about inflation turned less gloomy.