Consumer Sentiment Toward Tech Spending Rises in July

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Consumer confidence toward technology spending rose slightly in July and consumer sentiment toward the overall economy decreased slightly, according to the latest data released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).

Technology Spending

The CEA Index of Consumer Technology Expectations (ICTE), which measures consumer expectations about technology spending, climbed 0.6 points to reach 88.4 for July.

“Consumer sentiment toward tech spending continues its three-month streak, with another increase in July,” said Chris Ely, senior manager, industry analysis, CEA. “To some extent, we credit recent earnings announcements that smartphones performed well in the second quarter.”

CEA recently released its semi-annual report U.S. Consumer Electronics Sales and Forecasts, which finds smartphones continue their position as the leading sales category in the tech industry, with revenues expected to generate $54 billion in 2015 – a ten percent increase from last year.

Overall Economy

The CEA Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE), which measures consumer sentiment about the U.S. economy as a whole, decreased 1.9 points from June to reach 173.8. However, July’s ICE continues to track higher year-over-year since CEA Indexes began in June of 2007.

“Economic concerns abroad are likely behind the July dip,” said Ely. “However, there should be a second half of the year pick-up, as consumers are encouraged by an improving employment and wage landscape.”

The CEA Indexes are updated on a monthly basis through consumer surveys. New data is released on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 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 $285 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative and regulatory advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at CE.org,