from PYMNTS
As consumers look at their economic prospects, they are torn between factors pulling them in different directions, feeling relatively confident about the job market but remaining deeply concerned about rising prices.
Confidence Ekes Upward
The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index rose modestly in July, signaling mixed sentiments among U.S. consumers. The index increased to 100.3 from a revised 97.8 in June. This uptick, however, masks underlying concerns. The Present Situation Index, which evaluates current business and labor market conditions, dropped to 133.6 from 135.3, indicating that consumers perceive the present economic situation as slightly deteriorating.