Consumer Sentiment Up Sharply From November

Ann Arbor, MI, Dec. 23, 2009--Consumer sentiment increased in December for the first time in three months as companies slowed the pace of job cuts and stocks advanced.

The Reuters/University of Michigan final index of consumer sentiment rose to 72.5 from 67.4 in November.

However, the figure was lower than the preliminary 73.4 reading, reported on Dec. 11.

A brighter outlook may encourage people to spend, helping propel the recovery entering 2010.

The consumer sentiment index was forecast to rise to 73.8, according to economists.