TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Consumer confidence has surged in Taiwan as stock market optimism hit new highs, driven by reduced global trade uncertainties and increased spending willingness among households. Cathay Financial Holdings (國泰金控) released comprehensive survey results Monday (Sept. 22) showing strengthened economic outlook across multiple sectors of the island's economy. The September National Economic Confidence Survey captured shifting sentiment as international markets stabilized following recent policy developments.
Economic indicators revealed dramatic improvements in consumer sentiment across Taiwan's key sectors during the survey period. The outlook optimism index climbed to minus 34.4 while future expectations reached minus 32.0, according to comprehensive survey data released by the financial services company. Large consumption willingness surged to minus 0.9, signaling renewed appetite for major household purchases and significant investment decisions among Taiwanese consumers.
Stock market confidence reached exceptional levels as Taiwan investors embraced higher risk tolerance and optimistic projections for future returns. Taiwan stock optimism jumped to 6.2 while risk appetite climbed to 8.3, reflecting broader market enthusiasm among retail and institutional investors. Global trade policy stability and anticipated central bank easing measures fueled international market gains across major exchanges worldwide.
Taiwanese consumers projected 2025 economic growth at 3.19% on average, with 60% expecting expansion above 3% despite ongoing global uncertainties. Government forecasts remain significantly more optimistic at 4.45% growth for next year, creating a notable perception gap between officials and citizens. The divergence highlights persistent caution among households despite improving economic indicators and strengthening global market conditions affecting Taiwan's export-dependent economy.
Housing market indicators presented contradictory trends as buyer interest increased while seller motivation decreased across Taiwan's property sector. Home buying willingness rose to minus 48.7 despite continued negative sentiment in the real estate market nationwide. Selling willingness dropped to minus 36.3 while durable goods consumption appetite weakened to minus 19.7, reflecting mixed consumer priorities.
Long-term inflation expectations revealed heightened consumer anxiety about rising costs over the next twelve months across Taiwan. Survey respondents showed 68% expect inflation above 2%, with 37% predicting moderate increases between 2% and 3% annually. Consumer goods prices dominated household concerns, with 32% identifying them as the primary driver of future price movements affecting daily expenses.
Cathay Financial Holdings conducted the comprehensive survey Sept. 1-7 across its extensive customer base nationwide to gauge economic sentiment. The research gathered 12,914 valid responses from Cathay Life Insurance (國泰人壽) website members and Cathay United Bank (國泰世華銀行) customers throughout Taiwan. Email questionnaires provided the primary data collection method for the wide-ranging economic confidence assessment covering multiple sectors.
Government economic data supported the survey's positive findings as official indicators remained stable throughout the summer period. Taiwan's National Development Council (國發會), the island's economic planning agency, maintained green signal lights for July economic indicators nationwide. Leading indicators showed minor weakness while simultaneous indicators demonstrated improvement across key economic sectors. ◼