RCM/TIPP: Investor Confidence Soars To 4-Year High, Lifting Consumer Optimism In August

Consumer sentiment increased in August, as the RealClearMarkets/TIPP Economic Optimism Index rose from 48.6 in July to 50.9, a 4.7% gain. After peaking at a 40-month high of 54.0 in December, the index eased to 51.9 in January and 52.0 in February before slipping below the crucial 50.0 benchmark in March. August’s reading breaks a five-month spell in the pessimistic territory.