FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – The Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 52.2 in April 2025, down from 57.0 in March and 77.2 last April, according to the University of Michigan.
This marks the index’s fourth consecutive monthly decline, with expectations plummeting 32% since January—the steepest drop since the 1990 recession.
Consumers cited trade policy volatility and concerns over tariffs, with 60% mentioning tariffs in interviews, up from 44% in March.
Many expect tariffs to drive inflation and weaken economic growth.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents anticipate rising unemployment, while 67% fear declining purchasing power over the next year.
Interviews are conducted nationwide as part of a rotating panel survey.