Consumer Comfort Index Edges Higher

The consumer comfort index edged 5 tenths higher in the December 6 week to 40.1 for only the second increase of the last seven weeks. Both the assessment of current economic conditions and the buying climate improved which is good news for holiday shopping. The component for personal finances continues to slip and is at its lowest point since mid-August. Consumer confidence readings have been a bit shaky going into year end. Watch tomorrow's calendar for the closely watched consumer sentiment report.