Katrina Sinks Confidence
The Consumer Confidence Index fell in September to its lowest point in two years, according to the Conference Board, which attributed the drop to Hurricane Katrina, rising gas prices and a “less optimistic job outlook.” The index fell to 86.6 in September from 105.5 in August, according to the New York–based research firm. The group’s Present Situation Index dropped to 108.9 from 123.8 during the same period, and its Expectations Index decreased to 71.7 from 93.3.
