Consumer Sentiment Holds Steady Amid Government Shutdown

Consumer sentiment held steady in October despite the ongoing government shutdown, according to preliminary data from the University of Michigan. The index dipped slightly to 55 from 55.1 in September, performing better than economists expected. The report shows economic optimism remains weak as Americans face rising costs and job uncertainty. Analysts say the shutdown is also clouding the outlook by delaying key government data releases, including last week’s jobs report. Inflation expectations remain elevated, though slightly lower than last month.