US Consumer Confidence Plunges to Lowest Level Since 2014

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   US Consumer Confidence Plunges to Lowest Level Since 2014

   United States consumer confidence fell sharply in September, reaching its lowest level since 2014 according to Conference Board data. Americans grew increasingly pessimistic as persistent inflation concerns, climbing energy costs, and elevated prices for gas and other everyday items weighed heavily on sentiment. The downturn reflects mounting anxiety regarding future business conditions and the labor market. Consequently, consumer stocks face immediate pressure as shoppers turn cautious about the economic outlook.

   Why it matters

   The sharp drop in economic optimism highlights growing financial stress among American households amid prolonged inflationary pressures. Sentiment has deteriorated significantly, with recent measures tracking near a 12.5-year low and falling below levels recorded during the pandemic. This retreat in consumer confidence underscores broader worries about job security and rising living costs.

   What is confirmed

   • US consumer confidence fell in September to the lowest level since 2014, according to the Conference Board.
   • The decline was driven by elevated oil prices, surging energy costs, and inflation worries.
   • Households expect a deterioration in business and labor market conditions over the next six months.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Consumer stocks that depend on American shoppers are barely flinching despite the slide in confidence.

   What to watch next

   • Upcoming inflation and energy price reports
   • Monthly labor market and employment data releases
   Sources used for this update (14)

   1. WSJ — U.S. Consumer Confidence Fell in September Amid Elevated Oil Prices, Inflation Worries, Conference Board Says
   2. CNBC — Consumer optimism slides sharply as fears escalate over rising prices and jobs
   3. ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos — Americans growing more pessimistic about the economy as prices for gas, other items remain elevated
   4. Bloomberg.com — US Consumer Confidence Plunges to Lowest Level Since 2014
   5. The Washington Post — Americans feel worse about the economy than during the pandemic
   6. www.straitstimes.com — US consumer confidence near 12.5-year low amid labour market fears
   7. en.protothema.gr — Mitsotakis’s measures, courtesy of Pierrakakis; arrogant ministers and “open secrets” at each other’s throats; Alexis on Mount Athos (bless us!); Rubio in Athens
   8. www.koreatimes.co.kr — US consumer confidence sinks to lowest level since 2014
   9. finance.yahoo.com — Consumer Confidence Plunges to Lowest Since 2014 Amid Surge in Energy Costs
   10. finance.yahoo.com — Consumer confidence plunges to lowest level since 2014: Conference Board
   11. www.theadvocate.com.au — US consumer confidence slides to 12-year low: survey | The Advocate | Burnie, TAS
   12. finance.yahoo.com — Consumer Confidence Fell to Its Lowest Level Since 2014 and Consumer Stocks Are Already Paying for It
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