The economic downturn cast a gloom on consumer confidence although it remained unscathed till December, according to a recent survey.

"The next half-year will likely see a large drop in consumer confidence, especially personal financial standings," said Ngan Ly, research director, Ipsos China, a market research firm.

The company conducted a survey between November and December covering 2,400 female respondents in five major cities including Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou.