Washington - Consumer confidence in the United States surged in April as governments have begun pointing to signs that a deep economic downturn is slowing, according to a private research group Tuesday. The New York-based Conference Board said its index of consumer confidence jumped to 39.2 in April, its highest reading of the year, from 26.9 the previous month.

Lynn Franco, head of consumer research at the Conference Board, said the rise was due to a large improvement in people's short-term outlook. (dpa)