Irish consumers see improvements in their finances but worry pain may be on the way

Consumer sentiment reaches six month high but nervousness remains

The January sentiment reading remains well below the long-term series average, suggesting Irish consumers are very conscious that another substantial risk may just be unfolding. Picture: Denis Minihane.

Irish consumers reported a slight rise in confidence as easing concerns over the cost of goods and inflation were met with fears over the impact US economic policy changes might have.

The monthly survey of Irish households suggests a clear easing in cost-of-living concerns, but ‘macro’ nervousness has increased notably in the past two months, particularly in relation to job prospects.