What indicates a transition from a recession to a recovery phase?

The transition from a recession to a recovery phase is primarily marked by an increase in consumer spending. During a recession, consumer confidence typically diminishes, leading to reduced spending on goods and services. As the economy begins to recover, consumers start to feel more confident about their financial situation, which encourages them to spend more. This uptick in consumer spending is crucial because it stimulates demand for products and services, which can lead to increased production, more hiring, and overall economic growth.

In contrast, a continuous decline in GDP would suggest that the economy is still in a recession rather than moving towards recovery. High unemployment rates are also characteristic of recessionary phases and indicate economic distress, rather than recovery. Similarly, a decline in business investments reflects uncertainty and caution among businesses, which can hinder economic recovery. Thus, the indication of recovery is strongly associated with improved consumer spending, making it the correct choice.