American consumers are feeling better about the economy, with confidence jumping to its strongest level in six months as stock-market gains boost household optimism, Bloomberg reports.

The University of Michigan’s preliminary consumer sentiment index rose to 57.3 in February, up from 56.4 in January and well above economists’ expectations.

The survey, conducted from late January through early February, suggests shoppers are growing more comfortable with their financial outlook.

Inflation fears also eased. Consumers now expect prices to rise 3.5% over the next year, the lowest short-term inflation outlook in a year.

While longer-term expectations edged slightly higher, the near-term picture is offering welcome relief.

Rising stock prices played a key role in lifting spirits, particularly among households with investments.

With the S&P 500 hovering near record levels during the survey period, views of personal finances improved to a four-month high.

“Surging asset values are clearly helping boost confidence for many Americans,” said survey director Joanne Hsu, noting that gains have been uneven across income groups.

Encouragingly, shoppers also reported better conditions for making big-ticket purchases.

Sentiment toward buying durable goods reached its highest level since October, signaling that consumers remain willing to spend even amid mixed economic signals.

While concerns linger around jobs and longer-term inflation, the latest data point to a resilient consumer — one buoyed by market strength and growing optimism about the months ahead.