In August 2014 the composite business confidence climate index (IESI, Istat Economic Sentiment Indicator) decreased to 88.2 from 90.8 in July.
The confidence index in manufacturing fell to 95.7 from 99.1. Assessments on order books and production expectations worsened (from -23 to -24 and from 7 to 1, respectively); inventories increased (from 0 to 3).
The confidence index in construction fell to 77.0 from 83.0. Assessments on order books and construction plans and employment expectations worsened (from -45 to -48 and from -14 to -22, respectively).
The market services confidence index fell to 87.5 from 92.3. The index decreased in Transportation and storage (from 117.3 to 111.4), in Tourism services (from 74.6 to 69.0) and in Business services and other services (from 94.2 to 88.0) while it increased in Information and communication (from 67.5 to 74.6).
The retail trade confidence index fell to 98.3 from 101.4. The confidence decreased in the large-scale distribution (from 101.0 to 97.2) and in small and medium scale distribution (from 102.7 to 99.3).