Consumer Sentiment Improves Even as Financial Strains Persist

Core Viewpoint - Consumer outlook improved in January, with the University of Michigan's Index of Consumer Sentiment rising to 56.4 from 52.9 in December, indicating gains in both current conditions and expectations [1] Consumer Sentiment - The headline sentiment index is over 20% lower than a year ago, highlighting persistent inflation pressures and labor market uncertainty affecting household psychology [3][6] - Year-ahead inflation expectations decreased to 4.0%, down from December, providing some relief, but longer-term expectations edged higher, indicating skepticism about price stability [4] Financial Conditions - Consumers acknowledge recent inflation slowing but feel prices remain high relative to income growth, influencing everyday spending decisions, especially for essentials [5] - Approximately two-thirds of consumers are living paycheck to paycheck, with a growing number doing so out of necessity rather than choice [9] Economic Indicators - Weekly jobless claims remain stable, suggesting continued labor market stability, while GDP data indicates solid output despite households expressing uncertainty about their finances [7] - Fewer than half of consumers feel they could manage a $1,000 unexpected expense without falling behind on obligations, reflecting underlying financial fragility [10] Spending Behavior - Consumers are likely to remain cautious in spending, focusing on necessities while filtering discretionary purchases through concerns about income stability and unexpected expenses [12]