The latest survey data from the University of Michigan shows consumer sentiment in the U.S. is at a six-month low. We’ll unpack the numbers and get into what they can and can’t tell us about what’s really going on in the economy. And, a plan to split up U.S. Cellular between T-Mobile and Verizon is in the works. It’s part of a larger fiasco brewing at the Federal Communications Commission. Plus, we’ll play a round of Half Full / Half Empty!

Here’s everything we talked about today:

Consumer Sentiment Index from the University of Michigan

“T-Mobile, Verizon in Talks to Carve Up U.S. Cellular” from The Wall Street Journal

“A solar storm could produce northern lights in US” from AP News

“Apple is revamping Siri with generative AI to catch up with chatbot competitors, report says” from Business Insider

“Millions more Americans travel to bird-watch. Texas businesses are cashing in.” from Marketplace

“McDonald’s Will Offer a $5 Meal Deal to Lure Customers Back Into Stores” from Yahoo Finance

“Bluey Is Back! Disney Announces Collection of New ‘Minisodes’ Are Coming Soon” from People

We love to hear from you. Send your questions and comments to makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Plus, support our nonprofit newsroom today and pick up a fun thank-you gift like our new Shrinkflation mini tote bag or the fan favorite KaiPA pint glass!

What grocery aisle gossip can tell us about the economy 29:59 Share

Make Me Smart

Shownotes Transcript

What grocery aisle gossip can tell us about the economy