Financial confidence among Irish consumers increased in the last quarter, according to the latest study from Standard Life.

The group's December financial confidence index edged up to a reading of 66.4, up from 65.8 in September.

"It would appear that the recent volatility in financial markets does not seem to be affecting how people feel about their financial security," said Michael Leahy, chief executive of Standard Life.

A breakdown of the index showed that those aged over 65 continued to be the most confident consumer category. People aged between 18 and 25 were also shown to be confident, while the least confidence was displayed in the 45-54 age group.

Regionally, Dublin consumers showed most confidence, followed by those in Munster. The least financially-confident part of the Republic was Leinster, outside Dublin.

The index is based on responses from more than 1,000 adults.