US Consumer Sentiment Weakens in September 2026

New York City (ANTARA) - The United States Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 47.8 in September 2026, according to preliminary data released on Friday (11/9) by the University of Michigan (UM) Consumer Survey.

The index declined from a final figure of 51.7 in August 2026 and from a final figure of 55.1 in September 2025. This marks the second consecutive month that consumer sentiment has experienced a decline.

The preliminary Current Economic Conditions Index dropped to 50.9 in September, down from a final figure of 51.9 in August and from a final figure of 60.4 in September last year. Meanwhile, the Consumer Expectations Index plummeted to 45.8, weakening from a final figure of 51.5 in August and from 51.7 in September last year.

UM economist and Survey Director Joanne Hsu explained that inflation expectations for the next year surged from 4 per cent in August to 4.6 per cent in September, the highest level since June. “The current figure is much higher than the 3.4 per cent recorded in February before the Iran conflict began, and exceeds all figures recorded throughout 2024,” said Hsu.

She explained that long-term inflation expectations also rose slightly to 3.4 per cent, ending a three-month trend of remaining at 3.3 per cent. The survey found that sentiment from both Democratic and Republican groups experienced a significant decline.

With rising fuel prices and trade tensions resurfacing, consumers anticipate greater pressure on their finances in the future. “Expectations for the next year regarding both personal finances and business conditions have also dropped sharply,” she noted.

Hsu stated that overall, US consumer sentiment is currently 16 per cent lower than in February, before the Iran conflict began, and 13 per cent lower compared to a year ago.