Consumer Sentiment Index
The Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) is an economic indicator that measures the level of consumer confidence in the economy. It is based on surveys of consumer attitudes and expectations about the economy, and is used to gauge consumer spending patterns. The index is compiled by the University of Michigan and is released monthly. The index is based on five components: current economic conditions, future economic expectations, income expectations, buying plans, and inflation expectations.
History of the Consumer Sentiment Index
The Consumer Sentiment Index was first developed in the late 1940s by the University of Michigan’s Survey Research Center. The index was designed to measure consumer attitudes and expectations about the economy. The index is based on a survey of 500 households, which is conducted monthly. The survey asks respondents to rate their current economic situation, their expectations for the future, their income expectations, their buying plans, and their inflation expectations.
The index has been used by economists and policy makers to gauge consumer confidence in the economy. It is also used by businesses to help them make decisions about pricing, production, and marketing. The index is seen as an important indicator of consumer spending, which is a major driver of economic growth.
Table of Comparisons
| Month | Index |
|---|---|
| January | 90.7 |
| February | 91.3 |
| March | 93.5 |
| April | 94.2 |
| May | 95.6 |
Summary
The Consumer Sentiment Index is an important economic indicator that measures consumer confidence in the economy. It is based on surveys of consumer attitudes and expectations about the economy, and is used to gauge consumer spending patterns. The index is compiled by the University of Michigan and is released monthly. The index is seen as an important indicator of consumer spending, which is a major driver of economic growth. For more information about the Consumer Sentiment Index, visit the University of Michigan’s website or the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis website.
See Also
- Consumer Price Index
- Gross Domestic Product
- Unemployment Rate
- Interest Rates
- Inflation Rate
- Housing Market Index
- Retail Sales
- Manufacturing Index
- Consumer Confidence Index
- Stock Market Index
