Consumer Confidence Continues To Rise In March, According To Discover U.S. Spending MonitorSM

Consumer confidence rose again in March, spurred by brightening attitudes toward the overall economy and sustained confidence in personal finances. The Discover U.S. Spending Monitor, a 4-year-old daily poll tracking economic confidence and spending intentions of nearly 8,200 consumers throughout the month, climbed 1.6 points to 96.5. The Monitor is at its highest level since October 2007, and has jumped 19.5 points during the past six months.

In March, a quarter of respondents said their personal finances were improving, and 35 percent said that the overall economy is improving – the highest figure since April 2010. At the same time, 50 percent responded that the economy was poor, which is the lowest figure since April 2010.

Highlights of Discover U.S. Spending Monitor Results

				January			February			March
				2012			2012			2012
Discover U.S. Spending Monitor Index				90.5			94.9			96.5
U.S. Economy Improving				30%			32%			35%
Personal Finances Improving				23%			24%			25%

Consumer Spending Intentions Rise

Against this backdrop of improved confidence, more consumers reported plans to increase spending over the next 30 days in all categories surveyed by the Monitor. Spending intentions typically rise during this time of year as consumers anticipate higher gas prices and seasonal spending, such as home improvement purchases.

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