The Consumer Sentiment Index in the United States rose 3.3% in March month on month to stand at 79.4, the University of Michigan revealed in its final report on Thursday. The figure jumped 28.1% on an annual level. The Current Economic Conditions Index gained 3.9% compared to the month prior and 24.4% from March 2022, amounting to 82.5 points. The Index of Consumer Expectations increased by 2.9% on a monthly basis and 30.7% on a yearly basis, reaching 77.4. "Year-ahead inflation inched down from 3.0% last month to 2.9% this month. For the third straight month, short-run inflation expectations have fallen within the ... (full story)

US March 2024 UMich final consumer sentiment • Highest since July 2021 • March prelim was 76.5 • Final February was 76.9 • Current conditions 82.5 vs 79.4 prelim • Expectations 77.4 vs 74.6 prelim • One -year inflation 2.9% vs 3.0% prelim -- matches lowest since Dec 2020 • Five-year inflation 2.8% vs 2.9% prelim • This is a goldilocks report and underscores the strength in the US economy and moderating inflation. That said, I don't put any stock in this report, which is more of a political gauge than an economic one. (full story)