Americans’ outlook on the economy improved modestly in November, lifted by expectations for lower inflation and more hiring. The Conference Board, a business research group, said Tuesday that its consumer confidence index ticked up to 111.7 from 109.6 in October. The small increase followed a big gain in October.

German consumers are feeling more pessimistic heading into December due to growing uncertainty in Europe’s struggling top economy and concerns about employment, a key survey showed on Wednesday (Nov 27).

Americans’ outlook on the economy improved modestly in November, lifted by expectations for lower inflation and more hiring

Consumer confidence climbed to a 16-month high in November, buoyed by rising stock prices, slowing inflation and a robust U.S. jobs market. The index of consumer confidence rose to 111.7 from a revised 109.

German consumer confidence sank this month to its lowest level since May as income expectations slumped, reflecting increased concerns over job losses and fears of an impending recession.

U.S. consumer confidence increased to a 16-month high in November amid optimism over the labor market, expectations for lower inflation and higher stock prices over the next year. Part of the second straight monthly rise in confidence reported by the Conference Board on Tuesday likely reflected the outcome of the Nov.