Consumer discretionary shares fall as oil jump and record-low sentiment pressure spending outlook

Consumer discretionary stocks including The Real Brokerage, Genesco and Sphere Entertainment fell in afternoon trading on May 14, 2026, after Brent crude rose and U.S. consumer sentiment dropped to a record low, raising concerns that households will reduce nonessential spending. The University of Michigan’s preliminary May sentiment index fell to 48.2, with consumers citing cost pressures. About one-third of respondents flagged high gasoline prices, while 30% cited tariffs. Goldman Sachs cut its 2026 discretionary cash flow growth forecast to 3.7% from 5.1%, saying higher energy costs are crowding out consumer budgets. Genesco shares were trading at $32.86, up 32.9% year to date but 14% below their 52-week high of $38.20 set in January 2026. The stock gained 3.1% on April 19, 2026, after activist investor Bradley Radoff and Jumana Capital disclosed a combined 7.7% stake and agreed to coordinate activities related to the company.