A composite indicator of consumer confidence rose to minus 25 in July from minus 28 in June on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to a monthly survey carried out by statistics office Insee. The indicator represents the balance in percentage points between consumers having experienced, or expecting, a rise in their living standard and those seeing a decline. Economists polled by AFX News had been expecting the indicator to rise only slightly to minus 27. The indicator on consumers' past personal financial situation was minus 17 in July, compared with minus 19 in June, while the outlook for personal finances was minus 3 versus minus 6. Past French standard of living was minus 55, compared with minus 60 the month before, and the outlook for the French standard of living stood at minus 38 versus minus 42. The Insee indicator showing the inclination to buy consumer goods was minus 15 in July against minus 12 in June.