US consumer outlook remains shaky (BBC)

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US consumer confidence has improved slightly in July, a survey suggests, though still represents a bleak view of the economy.

The Conference Board said that too much should not be read into the rise of its index, from 51 in June to 51.9.

The results showed no substantial improvement nor deterioration in the business or labour market, it said.

Consumer confidence has crumbled amid a credit squeeze and the housing crisis as well as higher food and fuel prices.

The monthly survey of 5,000 random US households is regarded as a gauge of consumer spending - which makes up two-thirds of the US economy.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7531560.stm