After an uptick back in our February survey, ChangeWave's latest survey of U.S. consumer spending shows a similar growth rate in March – led by improved spending on household repairs and travel/vacation.

But in a warning sign, rising concerns in two key areas are causing a sharp drop in consumer confidence and expectations.

The March 2-11 survey of 2,705 consumers does slightly show improved spending at two major retailers. However, the large discounters have run into a tougher environment this month.

Report details include:

• Changes in Overall U.S. Consumer Spending
• A Comparison: Consumer Spending Behavioral Forecasts – Past 3 Years
• Consumer Spending on Electronics, Household Repairs, Travel/Vacation, Restaurants, Autos and other categories
• Next 90-day spending projections for several major retailers including Amazon (AMZN), Apple (AAPL), Bed, Bath and Beyond (BBBY), Best Buy (BBY), Costco (COST), JC Penney (JCP), Macys (M), Nordstrom (JWN), Target (TGT) and Wal-Mart (WMT)
• Leading Home Entertainment Retailers
• Impact of Inflation and Higher Energy Prices on Discretionary Spending
• Changes in Consumer Sentiment and Expectations
• Changes in Consumer Confidence in the Stock Market
• Consumer Satisfaction with Personal Finances and Job Security
• Impact of the Economy on Investors – including Money Inflows and Outflows

Companies in the Report:

AMAZON (AMZN), APPLE (AAPL), BED BATH & BEYOND (BBBY), BEST BUY (BBY), COSTCO (COST), J.C. PENNEY (JCP), MACY'S (M), NORDSTROM (JWN), TARGET (TGT), WAL-MART (WMT)

The complete Consumer Spending Report is available here.