Japan consumer sentiment strengthened more than expected in August, survey data from the Cabinet Office showed Friday.

The consumer sentiment index rose to 42.0 from 41.3 in the prior month. The score was expected to improve to 41.8.

Among components, the index measuring income growth rose by 0.5 points to 40.9 in August. Similarly, the gauge for overall livelihood improved slightly by 0.4 points to 40.9.

The index for willingness to buy durable goods gained 0.2 points to 41.5. At the same time, the employment index climbed 1.5 points to 44.5.

The survey was conducted among 8,400 households on August 15, rttnews notes.