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Middle-Class Economic Anxiety Soars as Wealth Gap Widens

9/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The University of Michigan index fell to 55.4 in September, down from 70.1 a year earlier.
Economic anxiety is strongest among lower- and middle-income households; higher-income Americans remain optimistic.
Inflation, tariffs, and a softening job market weigh on the middle class.
Inflation-adjusted wages for middle-income households are lower than five years ago.
The wealthiest 10% control nearly 90% of stocks.

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Story summary

The University of Michigan index fell to 55.4 in September, down from 70.1 a year earlier.
Economic anxiety is strongest among lower- and middle-income households; higher-income Americans remain optimistic.
Inflation, tariffs, and a softening job market weigh on the middle class.
Inflation-adjusted wages for middle-income households are lower than five years ago.
The wealthiest 10% control nearly 90% of stocks.