NEW YORK - With millions of stimulus checks going out to taxpayers, Wall Street wants to know where that money will be spent — and this week's data could help investors gauge the mind-set of the average consumer.
Tax rebates have historically been helpful in boosting the economy, but they only really work if they're used to buy goods and services. With many consumers weighed down by debt and saving up to keep up with the cost of basic necessities, some market experts are concerned that what's best for most individuals — saving their rebates — might not end up helping the broader economy.