As the coronavirus continues to ebb and flow in different regions of the country, causing some states to slow the pace of re-opening for business, the volatility is taking a toll on consumer confidence across the board. According to new data released this week by the Conference Board, consumer confidence dipped in July as COVID-19 surged in some areas and slowed opening efforts in others. After rising to 98.3 points in June, the Consumer Confidence Index dropped in July and now stands at 92.6 – lower, but still above the pandemic floor of 85.7 from April. In a somewhat different vein, the latest installation of Morning Consult polling reveals comfort levels with going out to eat flat-lined in July after dropping in June amid the surge in COVID-19 cases. As of last week, 36% of US adults say they feel comfortable dining at a restaurant comprised of 47% of Republicans and 25% of Democrats saying the same. Compared to other leisure activities however, such as taking a vacation, going to a movie or visiting a museum, respondents were most comfortable at a restaurant.