U.S. consumer confidence has risen slightly in April, supported by strong tax refunds and improved views on jobs and income, although concerns about inflation and geopolitical tensions remain. The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index increased to 92.8 from 92.2 in March, driven by a rise in expectations for the economy, while views on current conditions dipped marginally. Optimism was boosted by perceptions of a stronger labor market and household income prospects, even as higher oil prices linked to Middle East tensions continued to weigh on sentiment. Inflation expectations eased slightly but remained elevated, with consumers still facing high living costs influenced by tariffs and global conflict. Confidence trends varied by demographic and political groups, with younger consumers more optimistic than older cohorts, while overall sentiment remains fragile despite continued consumer spending resilience.
