Michigan consumer sentiment reads 48 for October, up from preliminary 46.3
The reading is above the preliminary October figure published on October 9, and September's final reading of 48.1 sits just above it.
Published
Chart: University of Michigan consumer sentiment
The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index reads 48 for October. The preliminary October figure, published on October 9, was 46.3. That preliminary figure came in below the consensus forecasts of 47.3 to 47.6 reported by Yahoo Finance, Investing.com and Admiral Markets.
In the preliminary release, current economic conditions fell to 44.7 from 50.9 in September. The index of consumer expectations rose to 47.3 from 46.3. Buying conditions for durables fell, the survey said, amid high prices and borrowing costs. Year-ahead inflation expectations were 4.7%, up from 4.6% in September, according to Advisor Perspectives.
Survey director Joanne Hsu said on October 9 that frustration over the cost of living continues to mount. Consumers believe the economy has weakened since the start of the year, she said, as Yahoo Finance reported. The index hit a record low of 44.8 in May 2026, according to Admiral Markets.
Whether this is a genuine turn or a bounce within a still-depressed range depends on November. If the reading holds above 48, the rise looks more durable. If the downtrend resumes, October will look like a pause.
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