Economic growth remains fast, although it was slower in the second quarter than in the first. The growth rate for consumption is stable. The percentage increase for July and August together equals that of the second quarter. Consumer confidence remained strong in October, and news about the labour market is positive as well.
Unemployment continues to fall.
The number of vacancies in the second quarter equalled that of the first. But the news about prices was not as good. Inflation is rising in the Eurozone, including the Netherlands. The percentage change in producer prices remains in the double digits. There is no tangible effect from measures to reduce the oil price yet, and consumers expect prices to rise.