Welcome to today’s Deep Dive, where we unpack the latest signals from American consumers about the state of the economy. After experiencing several months of declines, consumer sentiment and confidence showed signs of stabilization or partial rebound in May 2025, according to recent surveys from the University of Michigan and The Conference Board. However, this apparent stability is layered with underlying anxiety and conflicting signals, as Americans remain concerned about persistent high prices and their purchasing power, the potential impact of tariffs, and the future job market. This Deep Dive will explore the nuances within these latest survey results, examine the key factors influencing consumer mood, particularly the impact of trade policy and inflation, and discuss the perceived disconnect between consumer sentiment and seemingly strong “hard” economic data. Join us as we analyze what this complex picture could mean for the economic outlook ahead, building upon the insights shared in the accompanying audio Overview.
Listen to the Deep Dive Below
