ZACKS·2026-02-27 14:11Economic Outlook - Consumers are increasingly concerned about a tightening job market, yet overall optimism about the economy's health remains intact, with many believing conditions will improve and the economy is on track for recovery [1] - Consumer confidence rose by 2.2 points in February to 91.2, surpassing analysts' expectations of 87, following a revised January figure of 89 [3] - The unemployment rate decreased to 4.3% in January from 4.4% in December, supported by the addition of approximately 130,000 new jobs [5] Consumer Sentiment - The University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Index increased to 57.3 in February from 56.4 in January, marking the highest level since August 2025, indicating growing investor confidence that inflation will ease [5] - Short-term inflation expectations fell to a 13-month low of 3.5% in February from 4% in January, suggesting a belief that the worst effects of tariffs are behind the economy [6] Investment Opportunities - Large-cap growth funds such as Fidelity Contrafund, JPMorgan U.S. GARP Equity I, and T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth are identified as attractive investment options due to their strong performance and potential for future gains [2][7] - Fidelity Contrafund has a three-year return of 29.9% and a five-year return of 16.2%, with an annual expense ratio of 0.75% [10] - JPMorgan U.S. GARP Equity I fund has a three-year return of 27.5% and a five-year return of 16.7%, with an annual expense ratio of 0.59% [12] - T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth fund has a three-year return of 29.1% and a five-year return of 11.6%, with an annual expense ratio of 0.71% [14]