The RCM/TIPP Economic Optimism Index rose to 47.9 in December (from 43.9 in November), marking a solid 9.1% MoM gain but remaining below the neutral 50 threshold for the fourth straight month.

• The index is 2.5% below its long-run average of 49.1, indicating confidence has improved but remains weaker than typical historical levels.

• Investor confidence increased to 59.9 (+1.3 pts, +2.2% MoM), while non-investor confidence rose to 41.8 (+3.8 pts, +9.1%), narrowing the gap between the two groups.

• The Six-Month Economic Outlook improved to 44.4 (+4.4 pts, +11.0%), showing firmer expectations for near-term economic conditions.

• The Personal Financial Outlook climbed to 54.0 (+3.4 pts, +6.7%), remaining the strongest of the three subcomponents and signaling improving sentiment toward household finances.

• Confidence in Federal Economic Policies rose to 45.4 (+4.3 pts, +10.5%), its second consecutive monthly gain.

• The Financial-Related Stress Index declined to 64.2 (-1.0 pt, -1.5%), though it remained 6.2% above the long-term average of 60.5, indicating elevated but slightly easing financial strain.

• Six of 21 demographic groups were optimistic (vs. four in November), while all 21 groups saw MoM improvement, showing broad-based gains in sentiment across age, gender, race, and education categories.