Consumer Sentiment Dips Slightly Amid Labor Market Concerns
The Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index edged down to 55.0 in October, marking its lowest level since May. While the government shutdown had minimal impact on consumer perceptions, growing anxieties about the labor market weighed on expectations.
Survey director Joanne Hsu noted little change in economic outlooks from September, with current conditions improving marginally while future expectations declined. The resilience of sentiment suggests broader economic trends—particularly employment—remain the dominant concern for households.