South African consumer confidence gained modest ground in September 2026, according to the latest Thomson Reuters IPSOS Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI). The index inched up to 50.34 in September from 50.14 in August, based on data updated on 10 September 2026.
The month-over-month improvement signals a slight strengthening in sentiment compared with August’s reading, which had also stood just above the neutral 50-point threshold. The current figure reflects “Actual” month-on-month dynamics for September versus August, while the previous data point captures August’s performance against July.
Although the rise is marginal, the PCSI remaining above 50 suggests that, on balance, South African consumers are leaning cautiously optimistic about economic conditions as the third quarter progresses.