Story perspectives

U.S. Consumer Confidence Plummets to Lowest Since 2014

1/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. consumer confidence fell in January 2026 to 84.5, a 9.7-point drop—the lowest since 2014, per the Conference Board.
The decline is driven by inflation, high prices, and a sluggish labor market.
The share of consumers viewing jobs as plentiful fell, while those finding jobs hard to get rose.
Geopolitical tensions and tariffs contribute to anxieties, and economists expect limited opportunities, posing challenges for policymakers on affordability and job growth.

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Story summary

U.S. consumer confidence fell in January 2026 to 84.5, a 9.7-point drop—the lowest since 2014, per the Conference Board.
The decline is driven by inflation, high prices, and a sluggish labor market.
The share of consumers viewing jobs as plentiful fell, while those finding jobs hard to get rose.
Geopolitical tensions and tariffs contribute to anxieties, and economists expect limited opportunities, posing challenges for policymakers on affordability and job growth.