U.S. consumers spending more leading into and through holiday season

Perhaps in response to increased job opportunities and reduced revolving debt, consumer confidence seems to be increasing and Americans are spending more than they have since 2009, The New York Times reports. One of the major factors in business confidence is consumer spending and credit limits. While U.S. credit increased more than $7.5 billion to $2.46 trillion during October, alternative and short-term financing solutions may also be increasingly attractive to consumers. In addition, Reuters reveals that during the first 20 days of the holiday season, U.S. consumers spent $9.7 billion, nearly 15 percent more than 2010. "It’s hard to determine whether spending on credit is a sign of optimism or a sign of distress, but just anecdotally we feel there is the beginning of tentative feelings of comfort in taking on slightly more debt," Dana Saporta, economist for Credit Suisse, told The Times. Because consumers are spending more money this holiday season, seeking the services of a short term lender could help in case a credit card becomes maxed out.