Your Money Minute Stocks Higher, Consumer Sentiment Lower 2/9/26
Feb 9, 2026
Esther George, former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and noted monetary policy voice. She discusses persistent inflation and weak hiring shaping sour consumer sentiment. The show contrasts record stock highs with public pessimism. Short, sharp takes on inflation metrics and labor market effects.
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Consumers Are Pessimistic While Stocks Rally
- Consumer confidence has fallen to its weakest level since 2014, despite expectations above 90 coming in at 84.5.
- The stock market (S&P 500) hit a record high at the same time, highlighting a clear disconnect.
High Prices Plus Weak Hiring Sour Sentiment
- High prices and weak hiring drive sour sentiment even when overall economic indicators look solid.
- Esther George links persistent inflation and limited job growth to falling consumer mood.
Inflation Still Above Fed Target
- Inflation remains above the Fed's 2% goal, with CPI at 2.7% and PCE at 2.8% in December.
- Inflation dipped closer to 2% last spring but rose after the April tariff announcement.