Initial estimates suggest that US consumer confidence, as measured by the University of Michigan, progressed in June for the fourth consecutive month but was a little less than that forecast by analysts. Although the estimated forecast was 69.5 points, the barometer was actually 69.0 points, as opposed to 67.8 points in May. It is now at its highest level since the peak of the financial crisis last autumn (70.3 points in September). (I.L./trans/rh)