Consumer Confidence Dips in February on Recession Worries Despite Solid Economy

• Consumer confidence index fell to 106.7 in February from 110.9 in January, showing Americans are feeling less confident about the economy • The decline comes as a surprise since recent data indicates a healthy, resilient U.S. economy • Concerns grew over potential recession, with short-term expectations index falling below 80, often signaling upcoming recession • Americans slightly less worried about food and gas prices but more concerned about jobs and presidential campaign • Despite the dip in confidence, number of people planning big-ticket purchases in next 6 months rose