Consumer discretionary stocks fall as oil rebounds and sentiment hits record low

Consumer discretionary shares, including 1-800-FLOWERS, Caleres and PVH, fell in afternoon trading on May 14, 2026, as Brent crude rebounded and U.S. consumer sentiment dropped to a record low, raising concerns that higher fuel costs will curb 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 energy spending is taking a larger share of household budgets. Caleres shares were down 2.1% year to date at $11.99, 32.7% below their 52-week high of $17.82. The shoe retailer has seen 43 moves of more than 5% over the past year, including a 17.6% drop after first-quarter 2025 results missed revenue, EPS and EBITDA estimates and the company suspended its full-year outlook.