U.S. Consumer Confidence Rises in February Amid Lingering Labor Market Concerns

U.S. consumer confidence rose to 91.2 in February, surpassing expectations due to improved perceptions of the labor market, particularly among consumers aged 54 and below. Despite this rebound, concerns persist over long-term unemployment, limited job opportunities for recent graduates, and a high share of consumers finding jobs hard to obtain. Economists attribute hiring challenges partly to trade and immigration policies. Consumer spending intentions show mixed trends amid ongoing inflation and housing market constraints.