The RCM/TIPP Economic Optimism Index slipped -0.4 pts (-0.8% MoM) to 48.3 in October 2025, marking a second month below the neutral 50 threshold and signaling continued consumer pessimism. The index remains 1.7% below its 297-month average (49.2).

• The Six-Month Economic Outlook fell -2.7 pts (-5.9%) to 42.8, the weakest since late 2023, showing a sharper deterioration in short-term economic expectations.

• The Personal Financial Outlook improved +2.2 pts (+4.1%) to 55.6, reflecting a modest rebound in confidence about individual household finances.

• Confidence in Federal Economic Policies declined -0.9 pts (-1.9%) to 46.4, staying below neutral for a second straight month after briefly rising above 50 in August.

• The Investor Confidence Index fell -2.0 pts (-3.2%) to 60.5, while non-investor confidence rose +0.5 pts (+1.2%) to 42.4, widening the optimism gap to 18.1 pts.

• The Financial-Related Stress Index dropped -2.0 pts (-3.1%) to 63.3, easing slightly but remaining 4.8% above its long-term average (60.4), indicating still-elevated financial strain.

• Only six of 21 demographic groups were optimistic (above 50.0), down from seven in September and ten in August, showing a narrowing base of positive sentiment.

• According to TechnoMetrica, inflation and tariffs—especially food prices—remain top concerns weighing on consumer confidence.