US Consumer Sentiment Revised Slightly Lower

2026-02-20 15:05 By Joana Ferreira 1 min. read

The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index was revised down to 56.6 in February 2026 from a preliminary 57.3, little changed from January’s 56.4.

Still, it marked the highest reading since August 2025, following historically weak levels in recent months.

All major components showed minimal movement, suggesting consumers see little change in economic conditions from the prior month.

About 46% of respondents cited high prices as a strain on personal finances, with that share remaining above 40% for seven consecutive months.

Perceptions varied notably across groups: sentiment improved among large stockholders but declined among households without equities.

Similarly, higher-income and college-educated consumers reported gains, while lower-income and less-educated respondents did not.

On inflation, one-year expectations dropped sharply to 3.4% from 4.0%, the lowest since January 2025, while longer-term expectations were unchanged at 3.3%.



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