Consumer confidence across the euro area improved again in July, reaching -15.9. That's better than the -17.0 economists had expected, and marks the third straight month of gains.
July reading beats forecasts
The European Commission's monthly survey showed the index climbing from -16.1 in June. Analysts had predicted a smaller rise to -17.0, but the actual number came in well above that. The July figure is the highest since April, when confidence stood at -18.2.
Steady climb since April
Confidence has now risen every month since April. That three-month streak follows a period of stagnation earlier in the year. The improvement suggests households are feeling slightly more optimistic about the economy, though the index remains in negative territory — a sign that consumers still view conditions as weak overall.
The data comes from the European Commission's monthly consumer survey, which asks households about their financial situation, the general economic outlook, and their willingness to make major purchases. The index is calculated as a balance of positive and negative responses.
July's result is the latest in a series of readings that policymakers will watch closely. The European Central Bank has been monitoring consumer sentiment as it weighs its next moves on interest rates. Stronger confidence could support spending and inflation, but the index is still far from the levels seen before the recent downturn.
The next consumer confidence reading for the euro area is due in late August. That will show whether the improvement has continued into the summer months.
