U.S. consumer confidence held steady this month even as Americans wrestle with higher prices and feel less optimistic about the short-term future.
The Conference Board, a business research group, said Tuesday, March 26, that its consumer confidence index ticked down to 104.7 in March from a revised 104.8 in February.
Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the index rising to 107 from the previously reported 106.7. Americans' short-term expectations for income, business and the job market fell to 73.8, indicating a potential recession.
Consumers’ view of current conditions, however, improved to 151.0 from 147.6. The board said confidence among consumers 55 years old and older improved but deteriorated for those under 55. See more findings.