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Consumer confidence rose to highest level in five years
Detroit -- According to Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan on Monday, the Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 82.6 in October, the highest level since September 2007.
Economists polled by Bloomberg projected 83 for the measure after a preliminary October reading of 83.1.
The Michigan index of consumer expectations six months from now, which more closely projects the direction of consumer spending, rose to 79 from 73.5 in September. The gauge of current conditions climbed to 88.1 from 85.7 a month ago. -
Consumer spending climbs 0.8% on higher incomes
Washington, D.C. -- A Monday report by the Commerce Deptartment showed that consumer spending in the U.S. for September rose more than forecast as household incomes climbed.
Household purchases increased 0.8%, the most since February and topping the 0.6% gain expected by Bloomberg. The Sept. rise followed a 0.5% advance in August.
Incomes rose 0.4%, the most since March.
The economy expanded at a 2% annual pace in the third quarter, boosted by the uptick in household purchases.