Consumer confidence is a measure of popular sentiment concerning the Japanese economy. The figure is derived from a survey that asks thousands of Japanese consumers about personal expenditure patterns and inflationary expectations. In general, rising consumer confidence precedes increased consumer spending, which drives both economic growth and inflation. Even though t he Japanese economy is heavily driven by its export sector, domestic consumer confidence is an important gauge of overall economic activity and future inflationary pressures.

A headline figure above 50 shows positive consumer sentiment, while a number below 50 shows negative consumer sentiment; the greater the distance, the stronger the sentiment.

Relevance : Rarely affects markets
Release Schedule: 5:00 (GMT); monthly, in the middle of the month following the reporting month.
Source of Report: The Cabinet Office ( Japan )
Web Address: http://www.cao.go.jp/index-e.html
Address of Release: http://www.esri.cao.go.jp/en/stat/shouhi/0603shouhi-e.html
AKA: Consumer Confidence Survey