US Consumer Confidence Unexpectedly Rises in October, First Gain in Four Months

• US consumer confidence rose to 91.7 in October.
• The reading exceeded expectations of 80.4, up from 84.2 (revised).
• This was the first increase in four months, driven by improved job market views.

US consumer confidence unexpectedly rose in October, marking its first increase in four months. The Conference Board’s index jumped to 91.7, significantly exceeding economists’ expectations of around 80.4 and improving from September’s upwardly revised 84.2. This substantial improvement was attributed to brighter views on the US job market and overall business conditions. Despite the notable gain, the index remains at levels considered depressed, following its lowest reading since 2014.