US consumer confidence rises, inflation projected at 5.2% next year
Business
US consumer confidence ticked up a bit in March 2026, with the Conference Board's index hitting 91.8, slightly better than expected.
But people are still worried about rising prices, as inflation expectations are 5.2% for the next 12 months (the highest since May 2025).
Ongoing tensions involving the US Israel, and Iran have also pushed oil prices higher.
Gasoline tops $4, openings down 358,000
Gasoline now costs over $4 a gallon, the priciest it's been in more than three years, which is making everyday expenses tougher for many.
Meanwhile, the job market isn't looking great: job openings dropped by 358,000 in February and hiring fell to its lowest point since early in the pandemic.
Layoffs are also up.