Economic Optimism Hits Another Record Low—And Peace With Iran Likely Won’t Help, Survey Says

BreakingBusinessEconomic Optimism Hits Another Record Low—And Peace With Iran Likely Won’t Help, Survey SaysByTy Roush,Forbes Staff. Ty Roush is a breaking news reporter based in New York City.Follow AuthorMay 08, 2026, 10:43am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.ToplineViews on the U.S. economy dropped again in May to another record low, according to a widely tracked survey by the University of Michigan, which warned that further ceasefire talks with Iran are unlikely to boost optimism unless surging gas prices cool. Consumers still feel “buffeted” by rising costs brought on by the Iran war, including “soaring prices at the pump.”Getty ImagesKey FactsThe University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment reading, a monthly survey of Americans’ views on the economy, dropped to 48.2 in May from a previous record low of 49.8 in April.Values below the survey’s historical benchmark of 100 correspond with growing pessimism among Americans, and any reading above—which last occurred in 2018—suggests broader optimism.This is a developing story.Got a tip? Share confidential information with Forbes.Editorial StandardsReprints & PermissionsLOADING VIDEO PLAYER...FORBES’ FEATURED Video