Consumer spending in the U.S. rose in February by the most in seven months, showing the biggest part of the economy is strengthening. Purchases climbed 0.8 percent, the largest gain since July, Commerce Department figures showed today in Washington. The median estimate of economists surveyed by Bloomberg News called for a 0.6 percent increase. Incomes advanced less than projected, sending the saving rate down to the lowest level in more than two years. Households may be poised to take a more active role in the expansion as the biggest payroll gains since 2006 underpin confidence. While wages are climbing, other forms ... (full story)