There has been a steady move toward stronger than expected economic reports over the past month. In particular, manufacturing has picked up as has the service sector.

Consumer confidence has jumped to the highest reading in some time as the ugly election process came to an end. As we all know, there was a great deal of frustration that had built up with all of the negative campaigning and even more apprehension over the outcome.   With all of that behind us now, we can look at some of the more recent economic trends.

Below are a few charts for your consideration.

Not everything is coming up rosy – income and spending are still not at a levels that will help GDP expand much further. Of course there is always the hope that there will tax relief programs implemented with the incoming administration.