consumer News Updates

The U.S. cost of living was little changed in July, a sign subdued inflationary pressures will give Federal Reserve policymakers reason to keep interest rates low.

Consumer purchases climbed a bit more than anticipated in June, exceeding a gain in incomes that prompted American households to tap into savings.

Consumer confidence slid in July from the prior month on dimmer views of the U.S. economy’s prospects and lingering concerns among higher-income earners about global market conditions.

Consumer confidence the week ended July 24 held at the lowest level since mid-June with little change in Americans’ attitudes about the economy, personal finances and the buying climate, according to the weekly Bloomberg Consumer Comfort Index released July 28.

The cost of living in the U.S. rose in June, propelled by a rebound in fuel prices and sustained gains in rents that are driving inflation closer to the Federal Reserve’s goal.

Consumer confidence climbed last week to the highest level since October on more optimism about household finances, as steady job gains, low borrowing costs and a rally in financial markets overshadowed the uncertainty caused by Britain’s vote to leave the European Union.

Consumer comfort eased from a three-month high as Americans became a bit less upbeat about their finances, according to the weekly Bloomberg Consumer Comfort Index released June 30.

Consumer purchases moderated last month after the biggest advance since August 2009, as American households realigned outlays with slower income growth.

American consumers became slightly more downbeat at the end of June than earlier in the month on concerns about the economy’s progress even before possible repercussions stemming from the U.K.’s decision to leave the European Union.