The mood among U. S. shoppers has taken a hit.  A recent survey showed that people are getting more anxious about prices going up.  This is mainly because of new taxes on imported goods, known as tariffs.  The survey, done by a well-known university, found that the feeling of confidence among consumers has dropped to one of the lowest points ever recorded.

        The survey showed that people think prices will go up by about 7. 3% in the next year, which is higher than what they thought last month.  Even the long-term outlook for prices has gotten a bit worse.  This is important because when people think prices will keep going up, they might start spending less.  This can slow down the economy.

        The survey was done just before the U. S. and China agreed to stop raising tariffs on each other for a while.  This pause might help, but it's too early to tell.  The main worry is that these tariffs could make prices go up in the short term.  However, it's not clear if this will lead to prices going up a lot in the long run.  Some experts think it might, while others are not so sure.

        The good news is that the latest data on prices didn't show a big jump because of tariffs.  Prices for consumers and producers both went up less than expected in April.  This is a positive sign, but it's too early to celebrate.  The final results of the survey will come out at the end of May.  Everyone will be watching to see if the pause in tariffs has made people feel better about the economy.  It's a wait-and-see game for now.

        It's important to remember that tariffs are just one piece of the puzzle.  There are many other factors that can affect prices and the economy.  For example, the cost of oil, the strength of the dollar, and the overall health of the global economy all play a role.  So, while tariffs are a concern, they're not the only thing to worry about.  It's a complex situation, and it's hard to say exactly what will happen next.  But one thing is clear: people are feeling the pressure, and they're hoping for some relief.

CONSUMER SENTIMENT DROPS

Worries Rise as Prices May Soar: How Tariffs are Affecting Us

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