Consumer Sentiment Up Sharply From November

Ann Arbor, MI, Dec. 23, 2009–Consumer sentiment increased in December for the first time in three months as companies slowed the pace of job cuts and stocks advanced.

The Reuters/University of Michigan final index of consumer sentiment rose to 72.5 from 67.4 in November.

However, the figure was lower than the preliminary 73.4 reading, reported on Dec. 11.

A brighter outlook may encourage people to spend, helping propel the recovery entering 2010.

The consumer sentiment index was forecast to rise to 73.8, according to economists.