Consumer Confidence, often referring to the Conference Board's index, measures how optimistic or pessimistic consumers are regarding their expected financial situation. It is a leading indicator as it can predict consumer spending, which accounts for a majority of overall economic activity. When consumers feel confident, they tend to spend more, driving economic growth and corporate earnings. A rising trend in this index is generally seen as a positive sign for the stock market and the national currency.
The index is calculated based on a monthly survey of about 5,000 households. It assesses current business and employment conditions, as well as expectations for the next six months.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14, 2013 | 3.50 | — | — |
| Jul 10, 2013 | 102.10 | — | — |
| Jun 12, 2013 | 102.20 | — | — |
| May 22, 2013 | 97.59 | — | — |
| Apr 10, 2013 | 104.92 | — | — |
| Mar 13, 2013 | 110.54 | — | — |
