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University of Michigan Survey: U.S. Consumer Confidence Falls to One of Its Historical Lows
Golden Financial reported that U.S. consumer confidence fell to one of its historical lows in November, as Americans became more pessimistic about their financial situation. According to data from the University of Michigan, the final consumer confidence index for November dropped from 53.6 in October to 51, just slightly above the preliminary value. The current conditions index fell by 7.5 points to a record low of 51.1. Consumers' views on their personal finances are at their most pessimistic level since 2009. Survey director Joanne Hsu stated, "Consumers remain frustrated by persistently high prices and declining incomes." The data shows that consumers expect prices to rise at an annual growth rate of 4.5% over the next year, which has slowed for the third consecutive month. They anticipate an average price increase rate of 3.4% over the next five to ten years, down from 3.9% in October. While Americans' concerns about inflation have eased somewhat, they still feel anxious about high living costs and job security.

