The IBD/TIPP Economic Optimism Index in the US increased to a ten-month high of 45.1 in February of 2023 from 42.3 in January, but remained in pessimistic territory. 53% of adults now think the U.S. economy is in a recession, down from 55% last month. The six-month outlook for the US economy increased to 39.7 from 36.2. The personal finances subindex also went up to 52.6 from 49.9, striding back into optimistic territory and the gauge of support for federal economic policies held rose to 43.1 from 40.7. “This month’s indexes provide good reasons to be cautiously optimistic about the economy in 2023. With the exception of financial-related stress, all indexes improved, with some entering positive territory for the first time in several months. Although spending cuts remain in effect, fewer people think we’re in a recession, and we’re seeing significant increases in the number of people who believe the economy is improving”, ” said Ed Carson, IBD’s news editor.
