US November consumer sentiment 51.0... 57% feel living standards worsened due to high prices

The University of Michigan's preliminary November consumer sentiment index rose to 51.0 from 48.0 in October, a 6.3% monthly gain and the highest reading in three months, matching November 2024. The current conditions component climbed to 51.0 from 46.7, while the expectations gauge increased to 50.9 from 48.8. About 57% of respondents said high inflation has eroded their standard of living, underscoring persistent cost-of-living strain even as sentiment improves. The gains were concentrated among political independents, whose sentiment reached its highest level in roughly a year on slightly better views of personal finances and business prospects. Watch whether the improvement holds in the final November reading and whether inflation concerns continue to cap the recovery.