Consumer confidence toward the overall economy and technology spending both saw decreases in January, according to the latest figures released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®.

The CEA Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE), which measures consumer expectations about the broader economy, decreased by 1.7 points from December to reach 166.8 in January.

"The slight downward shift in overall economic sentiment is unsurprising, given early declines in equity markets to start 2014," said Shawn DuBravac, CEA's chief economist and senior director of research. "Gasoline prices have also inched higher over the last few weeks, placing further pressure on consumer sentiment."

The CEA Index of Consumer Technology Expectations (ICTE), which measures consumer expectations about technology spending, slid 7.1 points in January to 83.1, but held steady year-over-year by an increase of 0.1 point.

"At the beginning of each year, we see seasonal declines in technology sentiment following the holiday season spike, and 2014 has started with this typical pattern," said DuBravac. "However, the consumer electronics market is starting 2014 on stable footing as the underlying economy continues to improve."

The CEA Indexes comprise the ICE and ICTE, both of which are updated on a monthly basis through consumer surveys. New data is released on the fourth Tuesday of each month. CEA has been tracking index data since January 2007. To find current and past indexes, charts, methodology and future release dates, log on to CEAindexes.org.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the technology trade association representing the $208 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES - The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • CEA Winter Break
    March 18-21, 2014, Vail, CO
  • Digital Patriots Dinner
    April 29, 2014, Washington, DC
  • CES on the Hill
    April 30, 2014, Washington, DC
  • 2014 Technology & Standards Spring Forum
    May 19-23, 2014, Seattle, WA
  • CE Week
    June 23-27, 2014, New York, NY
    • CE Week Line Shows
      June 25-26, 2014, New York, NY

Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)
Danielle Cassagnol, 703-907-5253
dcassagnol@CE.org
www.CE.org
or
Samantha Nevels, 703-907-7080
snevels@CE.org