Consumer Reports Index Finds Americans' Rising Confidence Starting to Take Hold

Building on last month's improvements, the personal financial status of the American consumer is on the rise, according to the latest results from the Consumer Reports Index.

Confidence is gradually emerging and real improvement in retail may materialize in the coming months. Consumer Reports Past 30-Day Retail Index for May, reflective of April activity, is at 10.9, up slightly from April (10.4). May's Next 30-Day Index is at 9.0, up marginally from last month (8.3). The past 30 days witnessed a modest improvement for major appliance purchasing and a substantial seasonal lift for major yard and garden equipment. The Next 30-Day Retail Index, reflecting May, portends gains for major appliances, home electronics, and personal electronics. More on this.