For the first time in four months, consumer sentiment and overall view of the economy are increasing among Floridians, according to the latest survey published Thursday by the University of Florida ( UF ).

Consumer confidence increased in May by 3.7 points, from 77.3 to 81 points. From February to April , sentiment in Florida declined.

“Consumer confidence had declined sharply in recent months, largely driven by falling spending intentions and growing pessimism about the national economy,” said Hector Sandoval , Director of the Economic Analysis Program at the UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research . “In May, however, the rebound in sentiment was supported by a marked improvement in both Floridians’ willingness to make big-ticket purchases and their long-term out

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