Part 9/13:
Despite the market's rally, broader economic indicators reveal a cautious consumer outlook. Recent data show a modest increase in jobless claims—around 233,000 new unemployment claims—consistent with recent weeks.
Consumer sentiment remains flat at an index of 55, with minor improvements in current finances offset by less optimistic expectations for the future. Consumers appear unconcerned about the government shutdown, although high inflation expectations persist, hovering around 4.6%–4.7% for the next year.