The RealClearMarkets/TIPP Economic Optimism Index, a leading gauge of consumer sentiment, rebounded sharply by 9.1% in July to 44.2. Since September 2021, the index has remained in negative territory for 35 consecutive months. July’s reading of 44.2 is 10.2% lower than the historical average of 49.2. Optimism among investors gained 15.3% from 46.5 in June to 53.6 in July, while it increased by 4.5% among non-investors, from 37.7 in June to 39.4 in July. The RCM/TIPP Economic Optimism Index has established a strong track record of foreshadowing the confidence indicators issued later each month by the University of ... (full story)