Consumer confidence in the United States declined modestly in August 2025, driven by concerns over a weakening job market, tariffs, and high prices. This marks the eighth consecutive month of growing anxiety about employment conditions. According to the Conference Board, consumers' average 12-month inflation expectations increased to 6.2% in August from 5.7% in July, though this remains below the April peak of 7.0%. Short-term expectations for income, business conditions, and jobs fell to 74.8, a level below the threshold that typically signals a recession. Additionally, the share of consumers anticipating a recession within the next year rose to its highest level since April, coinciding with the rollout of tariffs implemented in that month.