The sharp drop in short-term expectations in January is more likely due to international circumstances than domestic instabilities, |
The shock of the hurricanes and subsequent leap in gas prices has begun wearing off just in time for the holiday season. |
The slowdown in job growth has curbed consumers' confidence. The level of consumer optimism has fallen off and caution has returned. Until the job market and pace of hiring picks up, this cautious attitude will prevail. |
The sluggish economy, declining consumer confidence, widespread layoffs and the tragic events of Sept. 11 appear likely to hold down holiday spending as we head into the final five weeks of the year, ... But retail outlets offering the price-conscious consumer a good buy may fare better than projected. |
The sluggish economy, declining consumer confidence, widespread layoffs and the tragic events of Sept. 11 appear likely to hold down holiday spending as we head into the final five weeks of the year. But retail outlets offering the price-conscious consumer a good buy may fare better than projected. |
The spring turnaround has been fueled by gains in employment, and unless the job market sours, consumer confidence should continue to post solid numbers. |
The swift outcome in the Middle East has helped quell consumers' short-term concerns. While an increase of this magnitude occurred after the Persian Gulf War in 1991, this post-war surge differs in that both components of the index posted gains. |
The tight labor market and continue optimism about jobs is clearly keeping consumer spirits high. |
The very favorable labor market is still the heart and soul of consumer sentiment. With unemployment so low and so many jobs out there, consumers remain very confident. |
Their overall assessment of current economic conditions remains favorable and their short-term outlook suggests little change in the months ahead, ... In fact, while expectations have lost ground, consumers anticipate the job market will continue to improve, and easing employment concerns should help keep spending on track. |
There are a lot of fringe and soft side issues here that can boost employee morale and also help bring in new employees. That economic focus that may have existed several years ago as the sole way of bringing in new folks and keeping your current ones content is no longer where a company's focus should be. |
There's been an increase in any pampering -- like spas, or any treatment that would be considered a luxury, |
There's been an increase in any pampering -- like spas, or any treatment that would be considered a luxury. |
These cooling expectations are not positive for the second half, which could be somewhat slower. |
They are aware it's improving, ... We are seeing signs that the reality is becoming the perception. But it's still only been two months of strong data. |