US Consumer Confidence Hits Pandemic-Era Low

In a worrying sign for the US economy, consumer confidence has taken a significant hit in April, with the Consumer Confidence Index dropping by 7.9 points to 86.0. This marks the lowest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data from The Conference Board.

Expectations Index Reaches 13-Year Low

The Expectations Index, a key indicator of future economic activity, has plummeted to 54.4, signaling a potential recession. Senior economist Stephanie Guichard points to increasing pessimism about jobs, income, and business conditions as the primary drivers behind this downturn.

Rising Concerns Over Inflation and Tariffs

Adding to the economic unease are heightened inflation expectations and stock market volatility. Consumers are also growing increasingly concerned about the impact of tariffs on prices, further dampening their outlook on the economy.