U.S. consumer sentiment ticks higher for 2nd month but remains subdued: index

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Americans' outlook on the economy improved for the second straight month in September, bolstered by lower prices for long-lasting goods such as cars and furniture and the prospect of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve.

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index ticked up to 69 in its preliminary reading, its highest level since May and up from 67.9 in August. The gain was driven by consumers' perceptions that prices have improved for durable goods, the report from the university said.