With regard to the consumer survey, the confidence climate index increased in March 2016 from 114.5 to 115.0. The economic, current and future components increased (from 141.8 to 142.9, from 110.7 to 111.1, from 120.4 to 120.6 respectively); the personal component decreased (from 105.8 to 105.7). The balance concerning expectations on unemployment does not change over the past month (12). The balance on inflation perceptions referring to the last 12 months and on inflation expectations for next 12 months lowered from -26 to -36 and from -20 to -30 respectively.
With regard to business surveys, the composite business confidence climate index (IESI, Istat Economic Sentiment Indicator) decreased from 103.2 in February to 100.1.
The confidence index in manufacturing rose from 102.0 to 102.2. Assessments on order books improved (from -14 to -13), production expectations remained stable (at 9) and inventories increased (from 3 to 4).
The confidence index in construction fell from 119.3 to 118.4. Assessments on order books and construction plans worsened (from -35 to -37) and employment expectations remained stable (at -7).
The market services confidence index fell from 106.5 to 103.2. The index increased in Transportation and storage (from 109.0 to 112.0) while it decreased in Tourism services (from 106.4 to 96.1), in Information and communication (from 106.5 to 101.8) and in Business services and Other services (from 105.9 to 102.9).
The retail trade confidence index fell from 106.8 to 104.9. The confidence increased in small and medium scale distribution (from 102.5 to 106.4) while it decreased in the large scale distribution (from 108.1 to 104.0).
Date of next release: 27 April 2016