Consumer Sentiment
The Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index dropped to 47.6 in April, its lowest level on record, after falling 5.7 points from the previous month. The plunge, nearly 11 percent, was largely attributed to the outbreak of the Iran conflict, which fueled inflation fears. Year-ahead inflation expectations rose sharply to 4.8 percent from 3.8 percent in March.
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A Bank of Japan quarterly survey for December 2025 showed consumer sentiment rising for two straight quarters, while views on living conditions worsened for the first time in two quarters. The results suggest more people believe the overall economy is improving, though higher prices are burdening livelihoods.