Jobs are harder to get and fewer are planning to buy homes or cars, says The Conference Board CEO

Consumer Confidence & Economic Outlook - The Conference Board's consumer confidence index has declined for the fifth consecutive month, signaling potential economic concerns [2] - Consumer confidence is diverging based on income levels, with those below $125,000 annually showing decreased confidence, while those above that level show increased confidence, indicating a K-shaped economic recovery [3][4] - Expectations for the future (expectation index) appear to have bottomed out, with consumers starting to feel the impact of current economic conditions [3] Inflation & Pricing - Consumers express concern that prices, particularly food prices, are not decreasing as expected, despite discussions of inflation coming down [6] - Tariffs are considered a regressive tax, impacting lower-income Americans and are reflected in prices [7] Small Business & Economic Sectors - Small businesses are facing challenges, with owners often relying on personal credit, while large businesses are performing well, highlighting a disparity between Main Street and larger corporations [8] - The current economy is service-driven, showing productivity gains in the service sector despite a weakening labor market, differing from past manufacturing-driven economies [11] Potential Economic Drivers - Larger tax refunds and potential increases in Obamacare health premiums could influence consumer spending in the near future [4] - Decreasing gas prices are providing some relief to consumers, while rising food prices continue to be a concern [5]