https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/consumer-confidence-plunged-in-september-conference-boardContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/consumer-confidence-plunged-in-september-conference-boardhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/consumer-confidence-plunged-in-september-conference-board#u103065Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:51:08 +0000United States consumer confidence fell sharply in September, reaching its lowest level since 2014. The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index dropped by 6.7 points to 81.9, down from an August reading of 88.6. Households reported growing pessimism driven by persistent inflation, elevated costs for gasoline and everyday items, and mounting anxieties over the labor market and a potential deterioration in business conditions. The steep decline exceeded expectations as consumers confronted various economic headwinds.Why it mattersThe sharp drop in consumer sentiment highlights ongoing economic