Consumers are optimistic in key emerging countries

Consumers in key emerging countries are optimistic about their own prospects this year, sustained by real income growth in most of these markets, and buttressed by high savings levels in some. Discretionary spending will continue to rise among the wealthy, but international brands will be the beneficiaries; yet, local firms will prosper from strong demand for essential goods and services. Meanwhile, income disparities will widen further. These were the main conclusions of Credit Suiss…