Confidence Index (or Indicator)

Any of several indicators that measure consumers' or investors' optimism or pessimism with respect to the economy or the stock market. High consumer/investor confidence is generally bullish for the economy and the market, although Technical Analysis practitioners may see it differently, pointing out that contractions follow expansions and vice versa. See also Barron'S Confidence Index; Consumer Confidence Index; Misery Index; Sentiment Indicators.