Consumer confidence in the overall economy improved in October, according to the latest figures released by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® and CNET. The CEA-CNET Index also shows confidence in consumer spending on technology is down slightly from last month.

The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) increased for the third straight month to 167.1 in October. The ICE, which measures consumer expectations about the broader economy, rose 3.7 points but remains down seven points from this time last year.

“Consumer sentiment in the overall direction of the economy is slowly shifting,” said Shawn DuBravac, CEA chief economist and director of research. “Uncertainty remains pervasive but the overall sentiment has risen three consecutive months showing that consumers are seeing marginal improvement in their economic outlook.”

The CEA-CNET of Consumer Technology Expectations (ICTE) is down from last month. The ICTE, which measures consumer expectations about technology spending, fell 1.6 points to 79.3. ICTE remains at the same level as one year ago.

“As we move into the important holiday season, the consensus view for holiday retail remains tepid, consistent with a mired sentiment. However, tech continues to show resiliency,” said DuBravac. “We expect consumer tech retail sales will be the leading category within overall holiday sales.”