The US consumer confidence index falls in August to its lowest level in seven months, driven in part by higher gasoline prices. The Conference Board reports the index declines to 89.4 from 90.2 in July.
Multiple outlets link the drop to ongoing conditions pushing fuel costs above $4 per gallon. The Guardian and The Independent both note that the conflict in Iran is keeping gasoline prices elevated, contributing to consumer frustration about persistently high inflation. PBS and other coverage similarly emphasize the consumer confidence decline alongside gas prices remaining above $4.
Outlets also provide context on the broader pattern in the confidence readings. The Guardian and The Globe and Mail describe the index as staying within a relatively narrow, “lukewarm” range throughout the year, and they contrast current levels with late 2024 and early 2025, when readings were consistently above 100.
