Consumer confidence

Consumer confidence in the U.S. remains below historical averages despite a slight monthly increase, while June hiring dropped to 57,000 jobs, the lowest in recent months. Inflation and high borrowing costs continue to impact economic sentiment, though mortgage rates fell to a seven-week low in June.

The U.S. consumer confidence index increased slightly in June, driven by falling oil prices that alleviated inflation concerns, but the rise was below economist predictions and labor market worries persisted.

Americans’ consumer confidence increased slightly this month due to falling gas prices, though their overall economic outlook remains largely negative compared to historical standards.

Indian households anticipate a rise in inflation, leading to decreased consumer confidence. The example of shoppers purchasing vegetables at New Delhi's Azadpur wholesale market illustrates the current economic concerns.

UK shoppers increased their high street activity in May as warm weather boosted retail footfall, reversing a decline seen in April. The British Retail Consortium and BDO reported improved consumer confidence following a spending squeeze linked to the US-Israel war on Iran.

A key inflation gauge reached a three-year high in April, leading to a decline in American consumer confidence. The situation poses political challenges for President Trump and congressional Republicans as midterm elections approach.

The S&P 500 hit a new record despite rising inflation fueled by soaring gas prices and declining consumer confidence. The stock market's rally occurred amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in Iran.

Used electric vehicle (EV) values have risen for the first time in eight months, potentially marking a turning point for the second-hand EV market. This shift could indicate growing consumer confidence or market stabilization in the EV sector.

French consumer confidence fell to a three-year low in May, indicating a significant decline in consumer sentiment. The drop highlights growing economic concerns among French households.

U.S. consumer confidence fell in May for the first time in months, dropping to 93.1, the lowest since 2025, due to rising prices and inflation linked to the U.S.-Israeli conflict in Iran. The decline marks the end of three consecutive months of gains.

U.S. consumer confidence declined in May as high gas prices and inflation reduced purchasing power, with two-thirds of Americans cutting back on spending. The economy shows a 'K-shaped' recovery, where higher-income households benefit from rising stock prices while lower-income families struggle.

US consumer confidence has declined due to widespread concerns about rising prices. The article highlights shoppers on Fifth Avenue in New York as an example of consumer behavior amid economic uncertainty.

The podcast 'Odd Lots' examines pubs as indicators of macro-economic trends, highlighting that two pubs a day have closed in England during Q1 2026. It explores how pubs reflect broader economic shifts, including labor market challenges and consumer behavior.

A Which? report reveals 3 million UK households are skipping meals due to rising costs, with 85% concerned about food prices and a majority fearing economic decline. The conflict in the Middle East has driven oil and material prices up, pressuring businesses to raise prices and eroding consumer confidence.

The article by Meredith Whitney examines vulnerabilities in the US consumer market, highlighting potential risks and economic uncertainties. It suggests underlying weaknesses that could impact consumer confidence and spending.

Consumer confidence in the UK fell to its lowest level since October 2023 in April, driven by rising costs and economic uncertainty linked to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Surveys highlight the Middle East crisis as a key factor worsening business activity and consumer sentiment.

The UK housing market faces declining confidence as rising mortgage costs and the Iran war create fear among sellers, with Canterbury experiencing particular strain during the spring selling season. Estate agents report a shift in consumer and business confidence due to geopolitical tensions impacting local property markets.

Thailand is investing $3.7 billion into shopping subsidies to address declining consumer confidence. The government aims to stimulate economic activity through this financial support.