U.S. Consumer Sentiment Hits Record Low 49.8

University of Michigan final consumer sentiment index fell to 49.8 in April, lowest ever, down from 53.5 in March.
Year‑ahead inflation expectations rose to 4.7% in April, up from 3.8% in March, marking the biggest monthly jump since April 2025.
Gasoline prices spiked above $4 per gallon after Strait of Hormuz closure, fueling inflation concerns and worsening short‑term business outlook.
A two‑week Iran‑US ceasefire softened gas prices slightly, but overall sentiment remained depressed across demographics and income groups.