U.S. MARCH BUDGET DEFICIT $164 BLN (CONSENSUS $156.75 BLN DEFICIT) VS MARCH 2025 DEFICIT $161 BLN - TREASURY

WH SR. ADVISER HASSETT: I HOPE GAS PRICE SPIKE ISN'T AFFECTING OTHER THINGS - FOX NEWS

US consumer sentiment fell to a record low in early April, with the University of Michigan index dropping to 47.6 from 53.3, reflecting rising inflation concerns linked to the Iran war. One-year inflation expectations jumped to 4.8%, while long-term expectations rose to 3.4%. Gasoline prices above $4 a gallon are eroding purchasing power and may curb spending. The current conditions gauge hit 50.1, and expectations fell to the weakest since 1980. Survey director Joanne Hsu said consumers largely blame the Iran conflict.