How Americans feel about the way their economy is going paled only slightly this month, suggesting Americans' spending will continue to support the economy despite weakness in manufacturing.
Data from the University of Michigan's final sentiment index rose to 95.5 from September's 93.2. The preliminary reading and median estimate of economists were both 96. The gauge of current conditions rose to 113.2 and the expectations index increased to 84.2, though that was down from an initial 84.8.
While consumer sentiment is still at a three-month high, the data showed Americans cooled on the economic outlook amid persistent trade tensions and global weakness. At the same time, elevated stock prices and low unemployment are keeping optimism relatively steady.
