Solid construction, auto sales data boost U.S. growth picture

By Lucia Mutikani WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. construction spending recorded its largest gain in five months in October, easing concerns of a sharp slowdown in fourth-quarter economic growth. Reports on Tuesday showing unexpectedly stronger automobile sales in November also buoyed growth prospects. "The economy is on firmer ground than people think, it remains a beacon of light in a world where growth in many countries remains subpar," said Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MU