So 2024 started with consumer expectations off 4% in three months, down 9% in a year, and 13% below 2015-19.
My trusty spreadsheet looked at quarterly averages of the Conference Board’s consumer confidence measurements for the state. These measures, derived from public surveys, consider shoppers’ views on the future and current trends that add up to an overall index.The index for California consumer “expectations” for their household finances ran at 81.7 in the first three months of the year, the lowest quarterly reading since the start of 2013 – just as the Great Recession recovery was gaining steam.
Combine those two yardsticks, and you see an overall consumer confidence index at 103.6 in the quarter. Yes, it’s up 0.4% in three months, but it’s also off 7% in a year and down 8% vs. 2015-19. And remember that squeamish consumers can impact the economy they worry about if they pull back on spending. So this may serve as a warning signal to California merchants, who have been enjoying relatively robust demand for all sorts of goods and services the past two years.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
13 Best Period Swimwear for Teens in 2024, According to Editors and ReviewersThe best period swimwear for teens will provide protection and comfort. Here, find one-piece, two-piece sets, and bikinis from Knix, ModiBodi, and more.
Read more »
MacBook Air M3 13-inch and 15-inch review (2024): Excellent yet unsurprisingDevindra has been writing about the way technology intersects with our lives for nearly 20 years. He started the Amherst Student's first technology column, worked in IT support for many (many) years, and eventually moved to Brooklyn to cover New York's tech scene in 2009.
Read more »
Oscars 2024: 'Oppenheimer' brings leading 13 nomsTonight's show begins at 4 p.m. Pacific at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.
Read more »
Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, 2024) Review: Price, Specs, Rating, AvailabilityThis machine delivers the same sleek design and portability, with a mightier M3 processor. But is it worth the upgrade?
Read more »
Apple MacBook Air M3 (13-inch, 2024) review: Unsurprisingly greatStan Horaczek is the executive gear editor at Popular Science. He oversees a team of gear-obsessed writers and editors dedicated to finding and featuring the newest, best, and most innovative gadgets on the market and beyond.
Read more »
13 Best Lighted Makeup Mirrors of 2024 for Flawless ApplicationDon't let subpar lighting ruin your makeup. Instead, invest in one of the best lighted makeup mirrors from brands like Conair and Simplehuman.
Read more »