The IBD/TIPP Economic Optimism Index, a leading national poll on consumer confidence, fell 6.8% in March — its third consecutive month of decline. The overall reading now stands at 41.0 — the lowest point since October 2013 (38.4). The March reading also keeps the index in negative territory for the seventh consecutive month. A reading above 50.0 signals optimism and below 50.0 indicates pessimism on IBD/TIPP indexes. The IBD/TIPP Economic Optimism Index has established a strong track record of foreshadowing the confidence indicators issued later each month by the University of Michigan and The Conference Board. For ... (full story)