Consumer outlook improved in January, reversing some of the sharp deterioration seen at the end of last year, though the recovery remains tentative. The University of Michigan’s Index of Consumer Sentiment, reported on Friday (Jan. 23) rose to 56.4 in January from 52.9 in December, reflecting gains in both current conditions and expectations.By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and to the sharing of your information with our sponsor, if applicable, in accordance ...

It is hard to understate the importance of inflation in Americans’ concerns today. Not only is it almost always the top issue of concern for Americans in the polls, but people also think it is getting worse. Handling inflation is one of President Trump’s weakest areas. The polls document rising concerns about paying bills up and down the income scale and greater concern about debt.The Economist/YouGov mid-September survey found that 41% said their personal finances were the same as a year ago, but almost as ...