Japan Consumer Mood Hits 9-Month High

Japan’s consumer confidence index rose to 40.0 in February 2026 from 37.9 in the previous month, beating market forecasts of 38.2 and marking the highest figure since April 2019. All components posted gains, including overall livelihood (39.7 vs 36.8 in January), income growth (42.5 vs 42.0), employment outlook (44.0 vs 42.4), and the willingness to purchase durable goods (33.9 vs 30.4).

Japan’s consumer confidence index increased to 37.9 in January 2026 from 37.2 in December, but remained slightly below market forecasts of 38. It marked the highest reading since April 2024, as all components strengthened: overall livelihood (36.8 vs 35.9 in December 2025), employment outlook (42.4 vs 41.5), willingness to buy durable goods (30.4 vs 30.2), and income growth (42.0 vs 41.3).

Japan’s consumer confidence index declined to 37.2 in December 2025 from 37.5 in November, which was the highest level in 19 months and below market forecasts of 37.8. The decline came as most components weakened: overall livelihood (35.9 vs 36.2 in November), employment outlook (41.5 vs 41.7), and willingness to buy durable goods (30.2 vs 30.9). In contrast, consumers' views on income growth improved to 41.3 from 41.0 in the previous month.