The consumer confidence index, based on a survey conducted jointly by the Institute and the Central Bank, rose by 0.02% to 79.4 in March, compared to 79.3 in February.

While the increase is modest, it suggests a tentative improvement in consumer sentiment after a period of decline. The index remains below 100, which indicates a generally pessimistic outlook, but it's a small step in a positive direction. (ILKHA)