U.S. consumer sentiment rose in April, but remained at relatively low levels, according to media reports of a survey released Friday by the University of Michigan and Reuters. The consumer sentiment index rose to 65.1 from 57.3 in March. In mid-April the estimate was 61.9. Economists were looking for a final April result of 62. The index hit a 28-year low of 55.3 in November. The April result is the highest since September 2008, indicating the rallying stocks and a possible bottom for the recession may be perking up consumers.
