U.S. consumer confidence edged up, but budget concerns persist

The U.S. Consumer Confidence Index rose less than expected in December as it remained subdued on persistent affordability concerns. The University of Michigan's December final Consumer Confidence Index rose 1.9 points to 52.9, according to a report released on Friday, with the median economist forecast at 53.5. "Despite some signs of improvement at the end of the year, consumer confidence remains nearly 30 percent lower than it was in December 2024, as economic conditions remain a primary concern for consumers," said Joanne Hsu, the survey's leader. The final Current Confidence Index fell to an all-time low of 50.4, while the Expectations Index rose to a four-month high. Consumer sentiment about current conditions for big-ticket purchases deteriorated to an all-time low.