【世界说】美媒：必需品通胀吞噬购买力，美国消费者感受到寒意

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights a decline in consumer confidence in the U.S. due to rising prices and the impact of comprehensive tariff policies, with the consumer confidence index dropping 3.8 points to 89.1, marking the fifth consecutive month of decline [1][2] - The index measuring Americans' short-term expectations regarding income, business conditions, and the job market remains stable at 70.7 but is significantly below the 80 threshold that indicates recession risk, marking the 11th consecutive month below this level [2] - Concerns over inflation and tariffs are the primary worries for consumers, despite government claims that inflation is a hoax, with current economic assessments plummeting 9.5 points to 116.8 [2][3] Group 2 - The article discusses the disconnect between economic growth and consumer sentiment, attributing it to tariffs and inflation, with consumers spending most of their money on necessities rather than discretionary items [3] - The combination of tariffs and inflation has exacerbated financial burdens, with inflation having surged to a 40-year high, and tariffs further increasing prices, leading to renewed consumer anxiety [3] - The article notes that tariffs not only raise costs for businesses but also create economic uncertainty that dampens hiring intentions, contributing to a significant decline in new job creation and a rise in the unemployment rate to a four-year high [3][4] Group 3 - The pressure on low-income households is particularly severe, as they are often the most affected by persistent inflation and insufficient employment opportunities, highlighting the widening wealth gap in the U.S. economy [3][4] - Analysts indicate that individuals are seeking ways to save money and adopt more frugal lifestyles, especially among middle and low-income groups facing significant pressure on basic needs [4]