Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index Rises Unexpectedly in Preliminary November Survey

10:11 AM EST, 11/06/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The University of Michigan's preliminary consumer sentiment index rose to 51.0 in November from 48.0 in October, compared with the expectations for no change in a survey compiled by Bloomberg. Michigan conducted interviews for the survey between Oct. 20 and Nov. 2, before the midterm elections on Nov. 3. The current conditions index increased to 51.0 in November from 46.7 in October, while the expectations reading rose to 50.9 from 48.8. "While sentiment lifted for lower- and middle-wealth consumers, it fell 5% for those with the largest stock portfolios in the wake of a relatively turbulent period in stock markets," Michigan said. Respondents saw one-year inflation expectations at 4.3%, down from 4.7% in October, while five-year inflation expectations declined to 3.4% from 3.5%. However, inflation concerns remained. "About 57% (of survey respondents) spontaneously mentioned that their living standards have been eroded by high prices, the highest seen since May and up from 46% in February, just prior to the Iran conflict," Michigan said. The twice-monthly Michigan Sentiment index measures consumer sentiment early in the current month (the preliminary estimate) and is then revised later in the month (the final estimate). The headline index is a combination of the current assessment and expectations for the near future. An increase in the reading suggests consumers are more confident, a positive for stocks if that confidence translates into spending. Increased demand is usually inflationary, a negative for bonds.