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American Consumers
Confidence among U.S. consumers increased more than forecast in January, reaching its highest level in eight months on signs the labor market is improving.
The Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan preliminary index of consumer sentiment climbed to 74 from 69.9 at the end of December. The median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey called for 71.5. The measure has increased 9.9 points in the last two months, the biggest such gain since April-May 2009.
The lowest jobless rate in almost three years and cheaper gasoline prices since mid-2011 are giving Americans reason to be more upbeat. While the pickup in optimism will probably help sustain household purchases, limited wage gains and falling real estate values may temper the consumer spending that accelerated in the fourth quarter.
Confidence among U.S. consumers increased more than forecast in January, reaching its highest level in eight months on signs the labor market is improving.
The Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan preliminary index of consumer sentiment climbed to 74 from 69.9 at the end of December. The median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey called for 71.5. The measure has increased 9.9 points in the last two months, the biggest such gain since April-May 2009.
The lowest jobless rate in almost three years and cheaper gasoline prices since mid-2011 are giving Americans reason to be more upbeat. While the pickup in optimism will probably help sustain household purchases, limited wage gains and falling real estate values may temper the consumer spending that accelerated in the fourth quarter.