By Ruth Mantell
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- The University of Michigan-Thomson Reuters consumer-sentiment index fell to a final June reading of 73.2 -- the lowest level since December -- from 79.3 in May, according to Friday reports. A preliminary estimate for June pegged the level at 74.1. Economists polled by MarketWatch had expected a final June reading of 74, on weak jobs data and concerns about challenging conditions in the U.S. and overseas. The sentiment gauge, which covers how consumers view their personal finances as well as business and buying conditions, averaged about 87 in the year before the most recent recession. Economists watch sentiment data to get a feel for the direction of consumer spending.
