The UK GfK Consumer Confidence Index rose to -13 in September 2026 from -14 in the previous month, unexpectedly reaching its highest level since August 2024 as households became more optimistic about their personal finances and the economic outlook. The reading came above the Reuters poll forecast of -16, adding to recent signs of resilience in the UK economy. Confidence in the economic outlook climbed to its highest level since August 2024, while the mood around personal finances reached an eight-month high. Separate YouGov/Cebr and LSEG/Ipsos surveys also recorded their strongest readings since February. However, GfK warned that confidence remains firmly in negative territory, while rising inflation, energy and fuel prices could weigh on households and cause sentiment to falter in the months ahead.