US Consumer Sentiment Revised Higher but Remains Weak

The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index was revised higher to 48.0 in late October 2026, up from a preliminary estimate of 46.3, but remained at its lowest level in five months.

Gains in sentiment among Republicans and Democrats were offset by declines among independents.

Year-ahead business conditions improved by around 14%, although the index remained 16% below its level in October 2025.

Meanwhile, the decline in the Current Conditions subindex was driven entirely by buying conditions for durable goods, which plunged 18% amid higher interest rates and growing concerns about affordability.

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