Contrary to Expectations, Spending on Durable Goods Remains High

ARA Research & Consultancy released its Consumer Confidence Index for Kuwait for October 2025, sponsored by Lexus.

The ARA General Index recorded 114 points at the end of October, maintaining the previous month’s level. Results were similar between males and females, as well as between Kuwaiti citizens and Arab residents, with only minor variations.

Before going into the results, ARA analysts emphasize the need to interpret cautiously the recent figures reported under the title “Consumer Spending in Kuwait Declines for the First Time in Four Years”, as they reflect spending through local payment cards (K-Net) only, while various other payment methods, such as international cards, are now available in Kuwait. ARA analysts consider the decline in purchases through local cards to be natural, resulting from growing consumer confidence in online shopping using international payment cards. This explains why the Purchase of Durable Goods Index has remained at levels higher than those recorded over the past three years.

Slight Decline in the Current and Expected Economic Situation Indexes

Consumer confidence in the Current Economic Situation decreased by 2 points at the end of October, recording 106 points. Results varied between Kuwaitis and Arab residents, with the index increasing by 8 points among Kuwaitis and decreasing by 8 points among Arab residents. It also increased by 9 points among females, while declined by 7 points among males.

Similarly, the Expected Economic Situation Index fell by 2 points in October, reaching 119 points. The index decreased by 1 point among both Kuwaitis and Arab residents, while it observed a sharper contrast between females and males, increasing by 14 points among females and decreasing by 9 points among males.

Both indexes remain within high ranges compared to previous years. Fitch Ratings indicated that despite geopolitical conflicts, the average price of oil is expected to reach around USD 70 per barrel until the end of the current year, following projections of 1% global economic growth.

Current Personal Income Index Recovers Its Losses

The Current Personal Income Index increased to 112 points at the end of October, regaining 11 points from the losses incurred in September. The index rose by 16 points among Kuwaitis and by 6 points among Arab residents.

Examining the average wage levels, which are a key factor for this index, we notice the following: the average monthly salary of Kuwaitis in the private sector at the end of the second quarter of 2024 was around 1,654 Kuwaiti dinars for males, close to their average in the public sector, while the average for females in the private sector was about 1,112 Kuwaiti dinars, which is 20 percent lower than their counterparts in the public sector.

Moreover, and in addition to wages and salaries, the government provides support to purchase fuel, foodstuff, and essential goods, as well as other incentives.
Meanwhile, Boursa Kuwait recorded its third consecutive week of gains by the end of October, reaching 360 million Kuwaiti dinars in a single week.

Expected Personal Income Index Maintains its High Levels

The Expected Personal Income Index declined slightly by 1 point from September, settling at 111 points, and maintaining the high levels reached since mid-2024. Results were similar between citizens and Arab residents, while the index increased by 3 points among females and decreased by 4 points among males.

Purchase of Durable Goods Index Remains Stable

The Purchase of Durable Goods Index increased by 1 point in October, reaching 120 points. The index rose by 4 points among Arab residents and declined by 2 points among Kuwaiti citizens.

Employment Opportunities Index Declines

The Employment Opportunities Index decreased to 130 points in October, losing 14 points within a month. The decline was particularly evident among Kuwaiti citizens, with a drop of 26 points. Results between males and females were similar, with the index decreasing by 14 points among males and 12 points among females.
 It is worth noting that this index had reached a record high of 179 points in August.

Lexus Unveils ‘Discover’ Vision

A Future Ecosystem Spanning Land, Sea, and Air

Lexus announced a seismic shift in its brand philosophy and electrified roadmap at the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) 2025. Under the compelling theme of “Discover,” the luxury marque showcased a bold, multi-modal vision that moves beyond the conventional automobile to encompass a complete luxury lifestyle ecosystem—on land, sea, and even in the air.

According to Koji Sato, President, Lexus International:

“At Lexus, we believe that true luxury today is freedom, the freedom to discover a new way of living.”

The Six-Wheeled Statement: LS Becomes ‘Luxury Space’

The centerpiece of the Lexus exhibition was the radical LS Concept, a vehicle that does more than signal a new generation; it redefines the very meaning of the flagship nameplate. “Space is freedom, and space is privacy. Two commodities that are simply priceless. Commented Simon Humphries, Chief Branding Officer, Lexus International

A Multiverse of Mobility: Accelerating the Electrified Portfolio

The ‘Discover’ theme extended to a diverse portfolio, reinforcing Lexus' accelerated strategy toward becoming a 100% Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) brand by 2035:

• LS Coupe Concept: Designed for "Discover Duality”.
• Lexus Sport Concept: An uncompromising, low-slung BEV sports car focused on delivering an "Immersive" experience that engages all five senses.
• Beyond Land: Lexus introduced the Catamaran Concept, an autonomous, solar-panel-equipped luxury vessel for "Discover Escapism”.