Consumer confidence for May was much stronger than expected on optimism for trade deals
1. Consumer Confidence Index rose to 98.0, exceeding estimates significantly. 2. The index increased due to easing U.S.-China trade tensions and tariffs. 3. 44% anticipate higher stocks in the next year, an uptick from April. 4. Labor market expectations improved, with more respondents anticipating job growth. 5. Optimism spread across demographics, particularly among Republicans.