RJ and Makay

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The economic downturn has profoundly affected the financial habits of women, with more than 50% saying that their spending and savings habits had changed forever, according to a Citibank Economic Pulse survey.  71% of American women believe that the downturn has not hit bottom yet, though 61% say they remain somewhat or very optimistic about their personal situation in the coming year.

After a severe recession, an increase in consumer spending would normally be cause for celebration because it suggests the economy's improving. But the 0.7% spike just reported for February by the Commerce Department isn't impressing many people, even though it's the largest consumer spending gain in four months.

Why? People spent more in February mainly because gas got a lot more expensive. In fact, half of February's 0.4% inflation uptick was due to energy costs, and economists worry that if those costs keep going up, they'll cut into household budgets enough that consumers won't be able to spend on items associated with economic growth.

A positive development regarding employer matching contributions to employee retirement plans: According to a new survey, 30% of plan sponsors will reinstate previously eliminated or reduced matches in 2011.

That's great news for employees who lost some or all of their match during the recession. Americans need all the help they can get in saving for a secure retirement.