Consumer sentiment crashes as economic pressures mount.

Consumer sentiment crashes as economic pressures mount. The Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index plunged nearly 6% in March, reaching its lowest level since late 2025, driven by surging energy prices and market volatility. Current Economic Conditions fell 1.4% to 55.8, down 12.5% year-over-year, signaling deteriorating near-term economic assessments. Consumer Expectations declined for a second consecutive month to 51.7, representing an 8.7% monthly drop and 1.7% annual decline. This sharp deterioration reflects growing consumer anxiety about inflation, particularly at the pump, combined with ongoing financial market instability. Weakening sentiment typically precedes reduced consumer spending, which could pressure economic growth in coming months.