UK consumer confidence rose to its highest level in almost two years as wage growth started to outstrip inflation, easing a cost-of-living crunch on household finances. GfK Ltd. said its index of consumer sentiment increased 4 points to minus 21 in September. That was the strongest level since January 2022 just before the Russian invasion of Ukraine sent energy bills soaring. Economists had expected a small drop in confidence. The closely-watched survey found that British consumers are becoming more optimistic about the economic outlook and their personal finances as the next general election comes into view. Britons ... (full story)