Poles optimistic about the economy in first poll of brave new millennium
This years first measurement of the Consumer Optimism Index (COI)
recorded a significant 5-point increase. Respondents evaluation of Poland
s economic situation, its prospects, as well as their personal finances
were generally better, although the 80 point level can be considered as an
improvement only compared to Dec. 2000, since it does not exceed last year
s average, which was one of the worst since COI measurements have been
taken. It is somewhat surprising that increased optimism was recorded
among workers paid from the state budget and farmers, while employees of
the private sector, entrepreneurs and university graduates were more
pessimistic. The poll also suggests that Poles are saving more and
spending less. This trend has much to do with high interest rates as well
as growing consciousness of unemployment risks. According to
Rzeczpospolita, a significant rise in employment, radical political change
and successful negotiations with EU are the most important conditions
under which further COI increases might be expected. (Rzeczpospolita,
p.B2) M.K.
