Consumer Confidence in U.S. Rose More Than Forecast

Confidence among U.S. consumers rose more than forecast in January, reaching an eight-month high, as the outlook for jobs brightened.

The Conference Board’s sentiment index increased to 60.6 from 53.3 the prior month, figures from the New York-based private research group showed today. Another report showed home values dropped in November by the most in a year.

Growing optimism, an improving labor market and tax relief may combine to help spur consumer spending, which accounts for about 70 percent of the economy. At the same time, the absence of a sustained housing rebound and unemployment above 9 percent are among reasons the Federal Reserve may announce tomorrow it will stick to a plan for more stimulus.