Investors seeking exposure to the rising U.S. consumer sentiment can pick up spending related exchange traded funds, which have been outperforming the broader markets so far this year.
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR (NYSEArca: XLY) has gained 26.5% year-to-date and Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR (NYSEArca: XLP) rose 20.4%. Meanwhile the S&P 500 Index has increased 19.8% so far this year. [Consumer ETFs: Staples vs. Discretionary]
On Friday, the markets will be focusing on the University of Michigan’s Consumer Survey Center report on consumer sentiment, which is directly related to the strength of consumer spending. [Consumer ETFs Outperforming as Spending Closely Linked to Income]
The gauge is a widely viewed barometer that gives insight into the direction of the economy and influences economic policies and stock market movements. U.S. consumption makes up over two-thirds of the economy.
Consumer sentiment ended June near a six-month high as many expected robust economic growth and lower unemployment rates, Reuters reported.