Australian consumer sentiment eases in April - West Bank Survey

A Melbourne Institute and Westpac Bank survey of 1,200 people published today showed the consumer sentiment index fell 0.6 percent in April, from 0.2 percent seen in March. However, the annualized figure registered a growth of 3.4 percent, signaling the optimists outnumbered pessimists, according to Reuters report. 

Key points (Source: Reuters)

The index of family finances over the next 12 months dropped 5.8 percent. 

The index of family finances compared to a year ago rose 2.5 percent.

The barometer of economic conditions over the next 12 months jumped 0.6 percent.

The index of consumer spending - household items, fell 1.8 percent, meaning the consumers are reluctant to spend. 

The index to buy a dwelling dipped 0.5 percent in April but is still up 8 percent on a year ago