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2008 Economic Calendar |
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Resource Center » U.S. & Intl Recaps | Release Dates | Why Investors Care | Today's Calendar
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The University of Michigan's Consumer Survey Center questions 500 households each month on their financial conditions and attitudes about the economy. Consumer sentiment is directly related to the strength of consumer spending. Consumer confidence and consumer sentiment are two ways of talking about consumer attitudes. Among economic reports, consumer sentiment refers to the Michigan survey while consumer confidence refers to The Conference Board's survey. Why Investors Care
| Released on 3/31/06 For Mar 2006 | ||||||||||||
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Highlights
The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for March came in at a moderate 88.9, up slightly from 86.7 at mid-month and up from 87.4 in February. The Conference Board's rival consumer confidence index also showed a little better strength in March. But the current spike underway in gas prices, only partially captured by the month's consumer surveys, are likely to pressure April's confidence reading. Also, gains are being led by current conditions with expectations lagging, another possible sign of weakness ahead. Financial markets showed no reaction to the data.
At the mid-March reading, the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index remained unchanged at 86.7. While labor market conditions remain healthy, consumers may be feeling the pinch of higher energy costs for their cars and homes.
Consumer sentiment Consensus Forecast for Mar 06: 87.0
Range: 85.5 to 88
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Consumer sentiment is mainly affected by inflation and employment conditions. However, consumers are also impacted by current events such as bear & bull markets, geopolitical events such as war and terrorist attacks. Investors monitor consumer sentiment because it tends to have an impact on consumer spending over the long run (although not necessarily on a monthly basis.) |
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