Consumer Sentiment Highest in Nine Months

Ann Arbor, MI, June 12, 2009--U.S. consumer sentiment rose less than expected in June, and remained at relatively low levels, according to a survey released Friday by the University of Michigan and Reuters.

The consumer sentiment index rose to 69 in mid-June from 68.7 in May. Economists were looking for a June result of 71.

The index hit a 28-year low of 55.3 in November, and has averaged 88.2 over the last 10 years.

Recent readings have been boosted by consumers' expectations that the end of the recession is approaching.