The Consumer Confidence Index rose to 57.9 in April (1985=100) compared with 52.3 in March, the Conference Board reported yesterday. The Present Situation Index increased to 28.6 in April from 25.2 in March, and the Expectations Index improved to 77.4 from 70.4 last month, according to the report.

“Consumer confidence, which had rebounded in March, gained further ground in April. The Index now is at its highest reading in about a year and a half,” said Lynn Franco, director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center. “Consumers’ concerns about current business and labor market conditions eased again. And, their outlook regarding business conditions and the labor market was also more positive than last month. Looking ahead, continued job growth will be key in sustaining positive momentum."

Consumers' assessment of current conditions was more positive in April than in March, with those claiming business conditions are "good" increasing to 9.1 percent in April compared with 8.5 percent in March, while those claiming conditions are "bad" decreasing to 40.2 percent in April compared with 42.1 percent in March. Consumers' appraisal of the job market also improved, according to the report.