Consumer confidence hits six-year high

NEW YORK —Consumer confidence in July rose to the highest level in six years as Americans’ views of their finances and the economy improved, according to the the Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan index of consumer sentiment.

The index increased to 85.1 in July from 84.1 at the end of June. It was the highest level since July 2007.

Consumers said they were move favorable toward making purchases, including automobiles and homes.