June 24, 2024 23:35 GMT
Consumer Sentiment Firms, Inflation Expectations Ease Back To 3.0%
SOUTH KOREA
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Earlier data showed South Korea consumer sentiment rose to 100.9 in June from 98.4 in May. This tick higher is consistent with a resilient local GP growth backdrop, see the first chart below. However, the index remains sub earlier 2024 highs of 101.9 (recorded in February).
- In terms of the sub-indices for the index, most ticked higher. The domestic economy situation rose to 71 from 67. Expectations around the economic outlook also firmed. Spending plans were more mixed but mostly higher.
Fig 1: South Korean Headline Consumer Sentiment Index & GDP Y/Y
Source: MNI - Market News/Bloomberg
- On the prices front, the expected inflation level fell back to 3.0% from 3.2% in May. We haven't been able to breach the 3% level though on the downside, so far in 2024.
- Headline inflation pressures are moving in the right direction in terms of a pivot towards easing by the BOK, see the chart below, although the central bank is likely to want to see further downside in consumer inflation expectations.
- In terms of other price changes, expected wages were steady, but house price expectations did rise noticeably (to 108 from 101 in May).
Fig 2: South Korean Consumer Inflation Expectations & CPI Y/Y
Source: MNI - Market News/Bloomberg
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