Consumer Confidence Surges Higher

New York, NY, Aug. 25, 2009--Consumer sentiment rose more than expected in August, an indication that Americans' pessimism about the economy may be lifting.

The New York-based Conference Board says its Consumer Confidence index rose to 54.1 from an upwardly revised 47.4 in July.

Economists had expected a slight increase to 47.5. Nevertheless, the index is far below 90, the minimum level associated with a healthy economy.