U.S. Consumer Confidence Plummets to 22-Month Low
April's consumer confidence index dropped sharply to 97, signaling potential economic downturn amid persistent inflation concerns.
- Consumer confidence in the U.S. fell to its lowest since July 2022, with the index at 97, underscoring growing pessimism about the economy.
- Inflation, particularly in food and gas prices, remains a primary concern among consumers, impacting their economic outlook.
- The expectations index, a predictor of short-term economic conditions, dropped to 66.4, hinting at possible recessionary conditions ahead.
- Despite rising inflation and interest rates, consumer spending continues robust, presenting a complex economic scenario.
- Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates soon, with no reductions expected before the November elections, amid hotter-than-expected inflation data.