CEO confidence has slipped considerably over the past two quarters, as both current conditions and expectations have softened,
Whatever stock market effect we've had probably was felt in the present conditions index, but the overall index remains strong, ... The boost in optimism, coupled with tax refunds, should continue to fuel spending.
Consumers' upbeat mood about current business and labor conditions underscores the economy's continuing recovery, but the latest retreat in expectations suggest that the pace of economic growth will not accelerate in the months ahead,
Despite sluggish economic conditions and almost non-stop layoff announcements, consumers are cautiously optimistic that the economy will rebound later this year,
Consumers continue to rate current conditions quite positively, but they're still tentative about the outlook.
The lack of improvement in labor market conditions continues to dampen consumers' spirits, ... Despite September's retreat, consumers remain cautiously optimistic about the outlook for the next six months. Consumer spending is likely to continue at or near current levels.
Hikes in interest rates, severe drought conditions in the Northeast, and rising gasoline prices have helped dampen overall consumer optimism.