ANN ARBOR—Consumer sentiment fell for the first time in six months, edging down 4% from December. While assessments of personal finances inched up for the fifth consecutive month, both the short- and long-run business outlook weakened in January, said economist Joanne Hsu, director of the University of Michigan’s Surveys of Consumers.  Enlarge image above Sentiment… Continue reading Consumer sentiment down amid disagreements on new government policies 

ANN ARBOR—Americans are doing more than picking gifts this holiday season—they’re forecasting the economy. The University of Michigan’s Surveys of Consumers, led by economist Joanne Hsu, offers insights into how consumer sentiment shapes holiday spending and broader economic trends. With over 75 years of data, the index has become a trusted economic barometer, illustrating that… Continue reading Holiday spending shaped by economic fears, partisan divides

The presidential election did little to change overall trends in consumer views as consumer sentiment lifted for the fourth consecutive month, inching up to its highest reading since April 2024. Unsurprisingly, the prospect of Donald Trump’s economic policies has boosted the economic outlook of Republicans, while Democrats are more pessimistic about the path of the… Continue reading Election had minor influence on consumer sentiment trends

ANN ARBOR—Consumer sentiment lifted for the third consecutive month, inching up to its highest reading since April 2024, according to the University of Michigan’s Survey of Consumers. Sentiment is now more than 40% above the June 2022 trough.  This month’s increase was primarily due to modest improvements in buying conditions for durables, in part due… Continue reading Consumer sentiment rises as labor market perceptions improve

ANN ARBOR—American consumers view the economic impact of both trade and immigration more critically now than in 2020, according to the University of Michigan Surveys of Consumers. The share of consumers voicing support for increased trade fell from 68% in 2020 to 54% in 2024. Unlike four years ago, when a majority of consumers across… Continue reading Consumers’ support for trade and immigration declines, small change on higher taxes for wealthy

ANN ARBOR—Consumer sentiment rose to its highest reading since May 2024, increasing for the second straight month and lifting more than 3% above August, according to the University of Michigan’s Survey of Consumers. This increase was seen across all education groups and political affiliations. The expectations index for September is now 13% above a year… Continue reading Consumer sentiment builds momentum as inflation continues to slow

ANN ARBOR—Throughout 2024, consumers have repeatedly expressed that their expectations for the economy hinge on the results of the upcoming presidential election. Consumer views of the economy incorporate who, at the moment, consumers expect the next president will be. Some consumers say that if their election expectations don’t come to pass, their expected trajectory of… Continue reading More consumers expect economy to do better under Harris presidency, no difference for personal finances