“Continued declines in gasoline prices, an upbeat stock market and high levels of employment all contributed to gains in consumer confidence this month.”
“Consumers continue to be optimistic about the economy here in Florida. The employment situation here in Florida is better than it has been in decades, at least in terms of people having jobs. The stock market had a pretty good run in January, too, ending near 11,000.”
“Homeowners that were expecting quick turnover in their property will no doubt be forced to hold on to it longer. This slowdown in housing will have an effect on other areas of the economy, such as sales of furniture, appliances and home improvement stores.”
“Consumers in Florida continue to surprise me. I had expected consumer confidence to remain the same or decline this month, but consumers felt differently.”
