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Consumer sentiment offers another window into economic recovery

Jul 16, 2021
All eyes will be on feelings about inflation for the month of July.
The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment survey One question in the consumer sentiment survey asks people about the big purchases they make for their homes, like appliances and furniture.
Joe Raedle via Getty Images

Consumer confidence lackluster as the pandemic continues

Dec 23, 2020
Even with the rollout of vaccinations and federal action on a relief package, many consumers are wary about the future.
Even with positive news about vaccinations, most of the news about the economy and COVID-spread has been downbeat lately.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Growth in retail sales is slowing. That's a bad sign for the economy

Nov 17, 2020
As goes the U.S. consumer, so goes the U.S. economy.
Shoppers walk in South Coast Plaza in August in Costa Mesa, California. Smaller retailers are having a harder time transitioning to online sales and adjusting to COVID-19 restrictions.
Mario Tama/Getty Images

Here's what a "good economy" means to these shoppers

Oct 9, 2019
Consumers appear confident and willing to spend now, but they're worried about the future and haunted by memories of the Great Recession.
Consumers shopping in May in New York City.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Economy slows, consumer confidence grows. What?

Mar 15, 2019
The early March sentiment survey from the University of Michigan shows Americans’ good feelings about the state of economy are up more than 4 percent and expectations for the future increased more than 5 percent. At the same time, there’s a growing pile of economic data pointing to a slowing economy. How does one square this? […]

Here's why consumer sentiment is positive even while markets are tanking

Dec 21, 2018
By some economic measures, this has been a rough December. Stock prices? Falling. Markets? Volatile. Government? Might shut down. Interest rates? Gnashing of teeth. Recession coming? In the conversation. Consumers’ outlook on the economy? Improving. Wait, what? It’s true. Consumer sentiment rose in December. Why? Click the audio player above to hear the full story.

Consumer sentiment under the holiday microscope

Nov 13, 2015
Will consumers spend more this season?

For public good, not for profit.

Consumer sentiment falls sharply in September

Sep 11, 2015
The University of Michigan report is the first to reflect recent market volatility.

Weekly Wrap: Trans-Pacific Partnership and jobs report

Jun 12, 2015
Nela Richardson and Cardiff Garcia join Molly Wood to recap the week in business and finance.

Weekly Wrap: consumers, takeovers and Pacific trade

May 15, 2015
Nela Richardson and Cardiff Garcia join Adriene Hill to recap the week in business and finance.