Consumer confidence rises

Consumer confidence increased this month to the highest level since the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to a report from the Conference Board.

The index jumped to 101.8 this month from 86.3 in August. That's the largest month-to-month increase in 17 years.

“A more favorable view of current business and labor market conditions, coupled with renewed optimism about the short-term outlook, helped spur this month’s rebound in confidence,” said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board.

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