U.S. consumer sentiment improved slightly in July, holding close to the best level in more than a decade as more Americans grew optimistic about their future financial prospects. The University of Michigan's preliminary sentiment index edged up to 98.4 from 98.2 in June, according to data released Friday that were about in line with forecasts. The gauge has held within a 2.8-point range for the past five months. The expectations index climbed slightly while the gauge of current conditions cooled. Key Insights • Unemployment near a half-century low and fresh stock-market highs are helping to underpin consumer ... (full story)