National consumer confidence was down in April 2012

National consumer confidence was down in April 2012 after improving in the previous month, according to the Conference Board of Canada's index of consumer confidence.

The downward movement in monthly consumer confidence reflects a decline in sentiment across all categories. All regions recorded decreases in consumer confidence compared to the previous month, with the exception of Quebec.

The balance of sentiment about household budgets was down in April compared to March. The balance of sentiment for job growth prospects moved further into negative territory. The decrease reflects declines in the employment outlook in all areas except for the Prairies. A negative balance of opinion means more households said they expect the employment outlook to worsen in the next six months than said they expect it will improve.

The national balance of sentiment towards making major purchases, such as a home or a car, moved further into negative territory in April 2012 after improving in the previous month. A negative balance of opinion means more households said it was a bad time to buy a big-ticket item, such as a home or car, than said it was a good time to do so. This is an important factor underlying the housing market.