The consumer confidence index, sponsored by First National Bank and compiled by the Bureau for Economic Research , improved to -5 points in the quarter from -10 in the previous three months.
A confluence of positive developments has bolstered the confidence levels of South Africas more affluent consumers over the last six months, FNB chief economist Mamello Matikinca-Ngwenya said.
The Reserve Bank is due to announce its rate decision on Thursday, with economists expecting a 25 basis point cut as inflation slows, according to a Reuters poll.
Besides the deceleration in inflation, the formation of the government of national unity, the absence of load shedding, a stronger rand exchange rate and substantial fuel price declines have also contributed to improving consumer confidence.
