Lynn Franco Despite Quotations

While the Index remains below its pre-Katrina levels, the shock of the hurricanes and subsequent leap in gas prices has begun wearing off just in time for the holiday season. Despite this latest boost in confidence, holiday spending will be driven by the bargains consumers have come to expect.

Despite sluggish economic conditions and almost non-stop layoff announcements, consumers are cautiously optimistic that the economy will rebound later this year,

Despite this latest boost in confidence, holiday spending will be driven by the bargains consumers have come to expect.

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.