Consumer confidence up ahead of Christmas cost increases 

Respondents under 35 were more notably likely to say they have more to spend this Christmas than those aged over 35. Stock picture: Denis Minihane

Irish consumer confidence improved again in November after inflation eased and the European Central Bank indicated it has reached a peak with interest rates, however winter cost pressures loom, a survey showed.

The Credit Union consumer sentiment survey suggests Christmas costs are likely to be just over 4% higher than a year ago compared to a 6% rise last Christmas.