U.S. consumer sentiment remained largely stable in early March, but declined slightly as Americans became more cautious about the presidential election outlook.。Preliminary data from the University of Michigan in early March showed the sentiment index rose from 76 in February..9 down to 76.5。

Data on Friday (March 15) showed that consumers expect prices to rise at an annual rate of 3% over the coming year, unchanged from the previous month, and still expect costs to rise over the next five to ten years 2.9%。

While inflation is broadly receding and the job market remains strong, after Joe Biden and Donald Trump largely secured their nominations this week, Americans are now waiting for the election to better understand the economic outlook, survey director Joan Hsu said.。

In a statement, Xu said: "Consumer views have stabilized to maintain the status quo, and many people have reservations about the development trend of the economy, especially the long-term trend, for the time being, waiting for the results of the election in November this year.。"

Sentiment improved markedly among Republicans and Democrats, but the decline in sentiment among independent voters was the largest since August 2021.。