US Consumer Sentiment Index Falls to 48.1 in September

The US Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 48.1 in September, marking the lowest level in four months. Rising prices for groceries and gasoline are putting pressure on household economic outlooks, with the expected inflation rate for the next year increasing to 4.6%. According to the University of Michigan, the consumer sentiment index dropped from 51.7 in August, slightly surpassing the market expectation of 47.5. Expectations regarding personal finances have worsened by about 10%. Concerns over rising fuel prices and the resurgence of trade disputes have led to a sharp decline in business environment outlooks. Following the collapse of trade negotiations between the US and Canada, President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Canadian products. Currently, the US and China have agreed to extend their trade truce. The expected inflation rate for the next year rose from 4% in August to 4.6% in September, the highest level since June. The average gasoline price in the US is nearing $5 per gallon, with averages exceeding $6 in California. The long-term expected inflation rate for September is 3.4%, a slight increase from 3.3% over the previous three months.