Florida Consumer Confidence Index July 26th, 2011

Consumer confidence among Floridians rose two points in July to 68.
Of the five components that make up the index, three increased,
one decreased and one remained unchanged.

Perceptions of personal finances now compared to a year ago increased from
54 in June to 57 in July, while expectations of personal finances a year from
now rose a point from 74 in June to 75.

Expectations about U.S. economic conditions over the next year declined a point
from 60 in June to 59 in July while expectations of U.S. economic conditions over
the next five years remained unchanged. The largest change was an increase in the
component asking respondents if it is a good time to buy big-ticket items, that
component rose five points to 77.

Of equal interest is an increase in the overall index for those over age 60 and a
decline for those under age 60. Last month the decline in confidence was largely
due to seniors. This month they report an improvement in their current personal
finances. This may reflect the stalled debt talks which has not yet resulted in a
cut to entitlement programs. Seniors may have also become more aware of the nature
of proposed entitlement cuts which for the most part will not affect those in or
near retirement.”

To read the full report from UF Bureau of Economic and Business Research, click here.