According to PANews, consumer confidence in the United States experienced a significant decline in March, with inflation expectations rising sharply. This downturn is attributed to concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's comprehensive tariff policies, which are feared to increase prices and weaken the economy. The tariffs have sparked a trade war, further unsettling financial markets and leading to a stock market sell-off, contributing to the current negative sentiment.
The University of Michigan reported on Friday that the consumer confidence index fell from a final reading of 64.7 in February to 57.9 in March. This drop has erased all gains made since Trump won the presidential election in November last year. Consumers' 12-month inflation expectations surged from 4.3% in February to 4.9% in March. Over the next five years, consumers anticipate an inflation rate of 3.9%.
The impact of tariffs and the escalation of the trade war have disrupted financial markets, causing a decline in stock market performance and contributing to the month's gloomy sentiment. A poll revealed that 57% of respondents believe Trump's efforts to revitalize the economy are too unstable, citing significant cuts in government spending and mass layoffs of federal employees. Additionally, 53% of those surveyed think the tariff war does more harm than good.
