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Headline Consumer Sentiment Improves Further, Inflation Expectations Ease Again

SOUTH KOREA

South Korea consumer sentiment rose again in April. The headline index now back to 95.1. This is highs back to mid last year. The index is plotted below (in level terms) against South Korean GDP y/y growth. It is suggesting better y/y momentum, albeit from low levels as we progress into H2. Of course, other headwinds, particularly on the external side may dominate.

  • Most of the sub components rose in terms of the domestic economy, and employment, while interest rates nudged down (in terms of changes) which is in line with the recent on hold BoK stance.

Fig 1: South Korea Consumer Sentiment Versus GDP Y/Y


Source: MNI - Market News/Bloomberg

  • The employment situation was steady, while wage expectations rose a touch but remain within recent ranges.
  • Other price related expectations nudged down. The second chart below is expected inflation levels versus CPI y/y for South Korea. Expected inflation is now back to lows from May last year.

Fig 2: South Korea Inflation Expectations Versus CPI Y/Y

Source: MNI - Market News/Bloomberg

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