U.S. Consumer Sentiment Rises to Five-Month High Amid Easing Inflation Fears
U.S. consumer sentiment climbed to 61.8 in early July, marking its highest level since February. The uptick reflects modest Optimism as short-term inflation expectations dipped to 4.4%, the lowest in five months. Long-term price growth projections also eased to 3.6%, signaling cautious relief among households.
Despite the improvement, underlying economic anxieties persist. Labor market concerns and stagnant income expectations continue to weigh on confidence. "Consumers remain wary of business conditions compared to last year," noted Joanne Hsu of the University of Michigan. The recent stock market rally appears to have provided some counterbalance, offering a psychological boost to financial outlooks.