Nov 27, 2019

The consumer confidence gap shrank in November

Data: The Conference Board; Chart: Axios Visuals

The gap between consumers' confidence in the current state of the economy and their outlook for future economic conditions shrunk slightly in November, according to closely watched data released by The Conference Board on Tuesday.

Why it matters: "For some time, consumers have been more positive on current conditions, but have had a more wary eye on the future. That appears to be changing, at least at the margins," Jim Baird, Plante Moran Financial Advisors' chief investment officer, wrote in a note to clients.

Go deeper: Consumers scaled back plans to buy a new car in October

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Courtenay Brown

Consumers scaled back plans to buy a new car in October

Data: The Conference Board; h/t Deutsche Bank’s Torsten Slok; Chart: Axios Visuals

Consumers scaled back plans to buy a new car last month.

Why it matters: It may signal consumers' lack of confidence in the staying power of the U.S. economy.

Go deeperNov 22, 2019

Courtenay Brown

Uptick in riskier annuities purchases

Data: Secure Retirement Institute; Chart: Naema Ahmed/Axios

Purchases of variable annuities hit a three-year high last quarter, according to new sales figures released by the Secure Retirement Institute.

Why it matters, per Axios Business Managing Editor Jennifer Kingson: Variable annuities, meant to generate income in retirement, fluctuate depending on the performance of various markets. The fact that consumers are buying them is another indicator of economic confidence.

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Keep ReadingNov 20, 2019

Courtenay Brown

Discount stores woo bargain-hunters

Off-price retailers are cashing in on consumers who are increasingly demanding more bargains.

Why it matters: The consumer is emboldened by a steady economy with a low jobless rate and spiking wages. But even with more money in their pockets, shoppers are increasingly turning to retailers that prioritize deals.

Go deeperNov 20, 2019