Consumer Sentiment Edges Up, Beats Expectations

Ann Arbor, MI, March 13, 2009–The University of Michigan/Reuters consumer sentiment index edged up in early March to 56.6 from 56.3 in February.

Analysts were looking for a March reading of 55. With sentiment remaining near historically low levels, it’s clear that the widespread economic weakness is weighing down consumers despite Washington’s massive stimulus plan to create jobs.