Westpac-MI Consumer Sentiment is an economic indicator published jointly by Westpac Banking Corporation and the University of Melbourne. This indicator aims to measure the emotional and behavioral tendencies of consumers in Australia regarding economic conditions, income expectations, consumer spending, and the overall economic situation.
Westpac-MI Consumer Sentiment is published on a monthly basis and presented in the form of an index. The base value of the index is set at 100. The index can be above 100, indicating an increase in consumer confidence, or below 100, indicating a decrease in consumer confidence. Therefore, a value above 100 suggests that consumer confidence is increasing, while a value below 100 suggests that consumer confidence is decreasing.
Westpac-MI Consumer Sentiment reflects consumers’ perceptions of economic conditions and their expectations for the future. This indicator is considered an important determinant of consumer spending. When consumer confidence levels are high, consumers tend to spend more, which supports economic growth. On the other hand, when consumer confidence levels decline, spending usually decreases, leading to slower economic growth.
Westpac-MI Consumer Sentiment, along with other economic data, is analyzed to determine economic policies and market trends. Central banks, governments, and investors monitor consumer confidence data to assess economic growth, inflation, interest rates, and monetary policies.
Therefore, Westpac-MI Consumer Sentiment is considered a significant indicator of the Australian economy and is closely watched by economic analysts and investors.