The consumer is getting more optimistic, according to the RBC Consumer Outlook Index, just in time to spend some of that money for the holidays.
The Royal Bank of Canada reported consumer confidence rose 3.2 points from November at 45.2—the highest level since the recession began. Although the number is up, it’s still lower than the average, which is 50.
Also reported and compared with the average are consumers’ current feelings of confidence, at 35.6 versus the average of 43. However expectations for the future are nearly at the average—now at 56.1 versus 58.5.