August marks the fifth straight month showing an increase in the index of leading economic indicators, which in turn is the longest gaining streak since 2004. Several analysts have hinted to this figure as a potential indicator that economic recovery is underway, despite the inherent uncertainty of such an assessment.
The index, which was determined by the Conference Board, determined that the gauge for the economic outlook over the next three to six months rose 0.6 percent in August following a 0.9 percent decrease in the same statistic in July. The result was in line with predictions, according to the New …read more

The recession might have hit bottom.

Today the Conference Board announced that the Leading Economic Index (LEI) for the U.S. increased 1.2 percent in May, following a 1.1 percent increase in April, and a 0.3 percent decline in March.
Ken Goldstein, Economist at The Conference Board said:
“The leading economic index increased for the second consecutive month. The coincident economic index is still declining, but the declines are less intense. The recession is losing steam. Confidence is rebuilding and financial market volatility is abating. Even the housing market appears to be stabilizing. If these trends continue, expect a slow recovery beginning before the end of the year. However, employment …read more

According to the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index, American consumer confidence jumped in April from 26.9% to39.2%. Short-term outlook significantly improved, as far fewer people anticipate business orsening over the next six months. The percentage of people expecting the economy to improve is still low at 15.6%, but that number too is up from 9.6% in March.
People also had a more optimistic view of employment, according to the report. The percentage of people expecting the job outlook to improve saw a boost from just 7.3% to 13.9%, and fewer peopl expect to see the job market to get even worse …read more