The only positive change consumers have seen since September was an extreme decline in gasoline prices.  It was just on October 3rd that I wrote a blog about bosses having employees work four days a week to alleviate gas spending.   Now it seems to be the least of everyone's worries.

The New York Times reports that gasoline prices have fell to a low of $1.66.  In July the high was $4.11.  The lessened demand for aircraft travel is largely responsible as well as a decline of industrial production.  Drivers also began to drive less as the economy fell since the summer.  The entire global demand for oil has lessened.

OPEC has called several meetings in attempt to stabilize a higher price, but so far it doesn't seem to be moving.  I'm sure consumers and retailers don't want it to.  Despite the recession, consumer spending rose 0.6 % in November.  Less cash at the pump means more cash in stores, at least for the holiday season.  Personal savings has also increased 1% in November.  Hopefully the gas prices stay down, who can imagine the economy if prices were back to over $4 a gallon?