Consumers are still seeking to reduce their discretionary spending, including purchases they would normally put on their credit cards, according to a survey Citigroup Inc. is expected to publish Thursday.
Sixty-six percent of Americans said they cut their credit card spending, according to the study, which was conducted by Hart Research Associates.
Nearly half of Americans said they only shop for necessities — or avoid shopping at all, the survey found.
Just 19% said they can shop for more than just the things they absolutely need, and 72% said they have cut back on their daily expenses.
"Despite indications that the economy is modestly improving, a majority of Americans don't seem to feel it and aren't acting like we're in an economic recovery," Jonathan Clements, Citi's director of financial education for its personal wealth management business, said in a press release.
Most respondents said they are reducing entertainment spending, though many also expect to cut down on dining, clothing, travel and home appliance purchases.
Clements said these responses are noteworthy because consumers are continuing to change their spending habits "despite the fairly dramatic cuts consumers have already made in their spending."
