Consumer Confidence, often referring to the Conference Board's index, measures how optimistic or pessimistic consumers are regarding their expected financial situation. It is a leading indicator as it can predict consumer spending, which accounts for a majority of overall economic activity. When consumers feel confident, they tend to spend more, driving economic growth and corporate earnings. A rising trend in this index is generally seen as a positive sign for the stock market and the national currency.
The index is calculated based on a monthly survey of about 5,000 households. It assesses current business and employment conditions, as well as expectations for the next six months.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 17, 2026 | — | -10.00 | — |
| Aug 19, 2026 | -11.30 | -10.00 | -1.30 |
| Jul 22, 2026 | -10.20 | -9.50 | -0.70 |
| Jun 18, 2026 | -9.90 | -11.10 | +1.20 |
| May 20, 2026 | -11.30 | -13.50 | +2.20 |
| Apr 23, 2026 | -14.10 | -12.80 | -1.30 |
| Mar 18, 2026 | -12.20 | -9.50 | -2.70 |
| Feb 18, 2026 | -9.10 | -9.20 | +0.10 |
| Jan 22, 2026 | -9.60 | -9.50 | -0.10 |
| Dec 17, 2025 | -9.90 | -10.30 | +0.40 |
| Nov 20, 2025 | -9.90 | -10.70 | +0.80 |