U.S. Consumer Confidence Hits Four-Year Low, Raising Recession Concerns

March marks the fourth consecutive monthly decline, with the Expectations Index at a 12-year low, signaling deepening economic pessimism.

The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index fell to 92.9 in March, its lowest level since January 2021, as fears of recession and inflation grow.
The Expectations Index, a key measure of short-term economic outlook, dropped to 65.2, its lowest point in 12 years and below the recession-warning threshold of 80.
Older Americans and lower-income groups experienced the sharpest declines in confidence, reflecting heightened concerns about income, business, and labor market conditions.
Economists warn of potential stagflation, with Americans expecting higher inflation and stagnant incomes, while consumer spending—a critical economic driver—faces risks of slowing.
Uncertainty surrounding tariffs and trade policies under the Trump administration continues to weigh heavily on consumer sentiment and stock market expectations.