Mumbai, Feb. 11 -- Australia's Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index rose slightly by 0.1% to 92.2 in February, reflecting cautious optimism. Household finances remain strained, with the 'family finances' sub-index dropping 3.4%. However, future outlook improved, with 'finances in the next 12 months' rising 0.6% to 105. Mortgage holders saw the biggest sentiment boost, driven by easing inflation and hopes for rate cuts.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Capital Market....