In February, American consumers were feeling less confident as concerns over a possible recession grew despite most recent data pointing to a healthy U.S. economy. The index’s decline last month came after three straight months of improvement. Consumer spending accounts for about 70% of U.S. economic activity, so economists pay close attention to consumer behavior.Cincinnati-based Cintas is expected by Wall Street analysts to post earnings of $3.58 per share in the period on sales of $2.
In January, signed contracts for homes fell 4.9% following December’s 5.7% increase. The pending home sales report serves as a forward-looking indicator of closings a month or two away. The housing market, which has been mired in a slump the past two years, has seen some encouraging signs lately with falling interest rates and more homes on the market.