Australia’s consumer confidence slumped in November following the Reserve Bank’s resumption of interest-rate increases, while firms reported an improved environment even as they fret over the outlook for the economy. Business conditions, which measure sales, employment and profitability, rose 1 point to 13 in October, holding above the average level since the start of the year, a National Australia Bank Ltd. survey showed Tuesday. Separate figures from Westpac Banking Corp. reported consumer sentiment declined 2.6% to 79.9 points, with pessimists heavily outweighing optimists. The index has held in a 78-86 range for ... (full story)