Preliminary Michigan Consumer Sentiment for the United States came in at 51 for the reference period of November 2026, above the market forecast of 48. The reading was also higher than the previous period’s 46.3. The figure was released at 15:00 GMT on 6 November 2026.
What the index measures
The Michigan index is a survey-based gauge of how households feel about their personal finances and the broader economy. A higher reading means consumers are more optimistic, while a lower reading points to more caution. Because spending by households accounts for a large share of US economic activity, the measure is watched closely by economists and policymakers.
The preliminary figure is an early estimate and can be revised when the final data is published. Readings from the survey tend to move more gradually than many other economic indicators, which is why comparisons with the previous period are often as informative as the headline level.
Comparison with forecast and previous period
Against the forecast of 48, the preliminary reading was 3 points higher. Against the previous period, the index rose from 46.3 to 51, a gain of 4.7 points.
