Japan's consumer confidence improved more-than-expected in September, survey data from the Cabinet Office revealed Tuesday. The consumer sentiment index rose to 43.9 from 43.3 in August. The expected reading was 43.5. A similar high score was last seen in March. The indicator for overall livelihood came in at 42.5 versus 41.7 in the previous month. The income growth index improved to 41.8 from 41.3. The gauge measuring employment rose to 47.8 from 47.4 in the prior month. Likewise, willingness to buy durable goods advanced to 43.5 from 42.6. The survey was conducted on September 15. by RTT Staff WriterJapan's ... (full story)