US February Consumer Confidence Hits 6-Month High as Inflation Outlook Falls to 1-Year Low

February US consumer confidence rose to 57.3, the highest in nearly six months, per the University of Michigan's Friday, February 6, 2026, preliminary survey, exceeding January's 56.4 and outpacing forecasted 55. The rebound reflects strength in the S&P 500, with households who own stocks reporting more favorable financial outlooks. However, the broader population's confidence remains weak. The one-year inflation outlook dropped to 3.5%, the lowest since January 2025, while the five-year outlook rose slightly to 3.4%. Employment concerns, including a 20-month high in announced layoffs and job openings at a 20-year low, continue to weigh on sentiment. Durables conditions improved to the best level since October 2024, indicating some resilience in spending, particularly among high-asset households.