Grassroots sentiment rises sharply in third quarter
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The Grass-roots Economic Sentiment Index (GSI) rose to 49 points in the third quarter from 44.1 in the previous three months, reflecting more confidence in the economic, social and political situations and the expectation of more state spending on economic stimulus and public investment, according to the Grass-roots Economic Research Centre.
Chatchai Payuhanaveechai, president of the Government Savings Bank, which runs the centre, also said the six-month index had increased to 51.8 points for the first time this year, from 45.9 in the second quarter, on expectations of the government focusing on spending for investment and stimulus in the final three months.
The third-quarter GSI survey was conducted nationwide among 1,526 people who earn no more than Bt15,000 a month.
These grass-roots people spend mainly on food and beverages, residential expenses (mortgage instalments or rent), electricity and water, and travel.
