Consumer sentiment in U.S. fell in August for second month

(Bloomberg) — Confidence among U.S. consumers eased for a second month in August as households braced for an increase in interest rates that could slow growth.

The University of Michigan’s preliminary index of sentiment decreased to 92.9 from 93.1 in July, figures showed Friday. The median forecast in a Bloomberg survey of economists called an increase to 93.5. Concern about the economy was counterbalanced by the most optimistic views on wages in 15 years.

Americans’ spirits have been boosted as gasoline prices retreat and companies continue to increase headcounts and limit dismissals. The global financial turmoil caused by China’s recent currency devaluation have yet to effect sentiment, heightening the focus on future reports.

“Given the increase in uncertainty, its potential impact on consumer sentiment must be carefully monitored,” Richard Curtin, director of the Michigan Survey of Consumers, said in a statement. “The declines in prospects for the economy probably reflect the expected increases in interest rates.”

The Federal Reserve will probably raise the benchmark interest rate next month, according to a majority of economists surveyed by Bloomberg this month.

The survey’s gauge of consumer expectations six months from now fell to 83.8 from 84.1 in July. The gauge of current conditions was little changed at 107.1 in August from 107.2 the prior month.

Americans expected an inflation rate of 2.8 percent in the next 12 months, the same as in July, the report showed. Over the next five to 10 years, they anticipated a 2.7 percent rate of inflation, down from 2.8 percent.

Other Measures