Amid the threat of trade wars and tariffs, consumer sentiment has fallen sharply according to the latest Ipsos B&A Consumer Confidence Barometer.
This wave of the Ipsos B&A Consumer Confidence Barometer was conducted from the 8th – 18th February 2025.
Consumer confidence has dropped sharply by 14 points in February and now registers a net deficit of -40 (those feeling upbeat about the economy over the next 12 months minus those feeling more pessimistic). Over half the population are fearful – The proportion of those saying we will be worse off has increased nine points and now stands at 55%.
Fieldwork was conducted against a backdrop of sabre-rattling from Washington, with much speculation as to how this will affect key industries in Ireland.
As in previous findings, females, blue collar workers and those living outside Dublin are most negative in their outlook. Those aged 35–54 are also more subdued.
The proportion of the population that are “coping” with the cost-of-living has shifted marginally in a positive direction (up one to 69%). That said, nearly one in five (18%) feel they are struggling.
Just one in four believe that their personal income will improve over the next year (down four points since January) compared to 34% feeling that they will be less well off. Many (41%) think there will be no change to their financial circumstances.
39% believe their net asset value will grow of over the next 12 months, with just 16% predicting a decline, highlighting a positive net gap. Dubliners (+32%) are most buoyant.
Three in five will maintain or increase their levels of saving this year – however, this leaves a significant minority expecting to curtail the amount they can save.
Survey results are based on a sample of 1,042 adults aged 16+, quota controlled in terms of age, gender, socio-economic class, and region to reflect the profile of the adult population of the Republic of Ireland. All interviewing was conducted via Ipsos B&A’s Acumen Online Barome
To download the full copy of the Ipsos B&A Consumer Confidence Barometer click HERE
