A new report issued by the Commerce Department has shown that average consumer spending fell in September for the first time in five months, a development that has been attributed to the ending of the Cash for Clunkers automotive rebate program. This drop in consumer spending matching analyst estimates and follows a 1.4 percent jump in the previous month.
Consumer confidence has taken a hit in recent months because of stagnant wages and growing unemployment, two factors that have raised worries that consumers will cut back spending in the coming months.
Analysts also worry that consumers will grow reliant on government programs, …read more

Has business been slow? Are you finding that people are pulling the trigger as fast as they used to?
You’re not alone.
The latest Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business index shows that half of 600 owners polled nationwide said they’ve postponed major purchases over the past three months.
In addition, just under half said they’re putting less into savings, while 31 percent have reduced their contributions to a retirement account, the survey found.
About a third said their personal finances were getting worse.
What about you?  Are you holding back from spending?

Jennifer over at My Organized Biz recently tagged me to find out my musings about what I want to do with my $600 rebate check.
Hmmm… good question, Jen. One I hadn’t thought about.
So here goes it:
1) $100 – I’m gonna blow it. I want to spend impulsively on anything I want at the time. (I always do this when I get a surprise like this, as it makes me feel indulgent!)
2) $50 – on new domains for new ideas
3) $300 – on a new family gym membership
4) $150 – a small postcard marketing campaign
But what I really …read more