Share
BALTIMORE — U.S. consumer confidence slipped ever so slightly in December, as expectations fell about economic growth over the next six months.
The Conference Board said Tuesday that its consumer confidence index edged down to 126.5 from November’s reading of 126.8. Americans felt largely confident about business conditions this month amid the holiday shopping season, yet their confidence wavered somewhat regarding job availability and income growth for the first half of 2020.
The reading of consumer sentiment points to continued economic expansion, but not much of an improvement given the 3.5% unemployment rate that is near historic lows.
Consumers Account for Roughly 70% of Economic Activity
Consumers account for roughly 70% of economic activity, so their sentiments about growth can be a key indicator about where the U.S. economy is headed.
Retail sales during the holiday season increased 3.4% from a year ago, according to early data from Mastercard SpendingPulse. But the gains largely came from online shopping, a reflection of how consumer tastes are also changing as fewer people feel the need to browse stores and malls.
RELATED TOPICS:
Madera County Deputy Injured, Wanted Felon Arrested After Violent Struggle
8 hours ago
Two Visalia Men Sentenced in 2021 Motel Killing
9 hours ago
Ex-Jan. 6 Defendant Gets Life in Prison for Plot to Kill FBI Agents
9 hours ago
House Republicans Say They Expect to Vote Tonight on Trump’s Tax-Cut Bill
7 hours ago
Categories

House Republicans Say They Expect to Vote Tonight on Trump’s Tax-Cut Bill

SLO Deputies Fatally Shoot Man in Los Osos Weeks After US Marshal Impersonation Arrest

Madera County Deputy Injured, Wanted Felon Arrested After Violent Struggle

Two Visalia Men Sentenced in 2021 Motel Killing
