Section

Economy

Macro indicators, Fed, employment

Axios

Consumer Sentiment Index Declines in August 2026

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index fell by 8% in August 2026, dropping to 51 from 55.2 in July. The decline was most pronounced among Republican respondents, and only 8% of consumers expect their income growth to exceed inflation in the next year.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.20
Washington Examiner

Consumer Sentiment Declines in August Amid Inflation Concerns

Consumer sentiment fell to 51 in August, a decline from 55.2 in July, attributed to inflation concerns and the ongoing conflict with Iran. The decrease was particularly pronounced among Republicans and demographic groups sensitive to purchasing power erosion. Inflation expectations have also increased slightly, with current levels remaining above the Federal Reserve's target.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.50
apnews.com

Retail Sales Decrease by 0.6% in July as Consumer Spending Shifts

Retail sales in the U.S. fell by 0.6% in July, the largest decrease since May 2025, according to the Commerce Department. This decline raises concerns about consumer spending amid ongoing inflation and rising gasoline prices. Economists are closely monitoring the situation as the holiday shopping season approaches, with many retailers offering discounts to attract cautious consumers.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.10
nbcnews.com

U.S. Vice President Vance States Low Oil Prices as Primary Goal in Iran Conflict

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has declared that keeping gas prices low is the primary goal of the U.S. in the conflict with Iran, as the administration prepares to intensify economic pressure and maintain a naval blockade. Oil prices have risen significantly since the conflict began, with Brent Crude currently priced above $87 per barrel and U.S. gas prices exceeding $4 per gallon. The U.S. military presence in the region is set to continue as tensions remain high.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: +0.00
New York Times — Business

Yen Approaches 160 Per Dollar Amid Concerns

The yen is approaching a value of 160 yen per dollar, prompting concerns regarding the responses from Japanese and U.S. officials. The recent decline in the currency has drawn attention to the economic implications.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10
PBS NewsHour

U.S. Retail Sales Experience Largest Decline in Over a Year

U.S. retail sales have reported their largest decline in more than a year. Economists express concern about consumer spending, which has been crucial for economic growth amid inflation and rising gasoline costs.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.20
Fox News — Latest

MTA Reports Increased Fare Evasion Linked to Political Rhetoric in NYC

The MTA has reported a rise in fare evasion in New York City, linking it to political promises of 'free buses.' The agency noted a nearly 8% drop in paid ridership and a $31 million decrease in fare revenue in the first half of 2026. Experts warn that implementing fare-free policies could significantly impact the MTA's finances.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.10
Washington Examiner

Iran Faces Widespread Protests Amid Economic Crisis

Iran has seen a rise in protests, with over 4,200 events recorded in the past year, reflecting growing public discontent due to economic challenges and political repression. The government's response has involved increased security measures, yet organized resistance continues to highlight a significant crisis of legitimacy for the regime.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: -0.50
Fox News — Latest

White House Report Highlights Transshipment Practices Costing U.S. Treasury Up to $26 Billion

The White House released a report on August 14, 2026, detailing concerns about foreign exporters routing goods through third countries to evade U.S. tariffs, with an estimated cost to the U.S. Treasury of up to $26 billion annually. The report identifies over 40 countries at high risk for transshipment, including China, and outlines steps taken by the Trump administration to strengthen enforcement against these practices.

Bias: 33 Sentiment: +0.00
Fox News — Politics

White House Report Highlights Transshipment Practices Costing U.S. Treasury Up to $26 Billion

A White House report released on August 13, 2026, outlines concerns regarding transshipment practices that may cost the U.S. Treasury between $19 billion and $26 billion annually. The report identifies over 40 countries, including China, as high-risk for routing goods through third countries to evade tariffs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is implementing AI technology to detect such practices.

Bias: 33 Sentiment: +0.00
PBS NewsHour

Ukrainian drones attack oil refinery in Russia

Ukrainian drones have attacked an oil refinery in Russia, causing a fire. This incident occurs as Russia remains a major energy producer, with oil being vital to its economy amid ongoing military actions in Ukraine since the invasion began over four years ago.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
Axios

Federal Trade Court Rules on Trump's Tariff Policy for Cheap Imports

A federal trade court ruled on August 13, 2026, allowing President Trump to block certain cheap imports from entering the U.S. without tariffs. This ruling supports the administration's trade policies and maintains the suspension of the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed low-value packages to enter tariff-free. The decision is expected to impact retailers like Temu and Shein and reflects a broader trend of tightening import regulations.

Bias: 45 Sentiment: +0.00
Washington Examiner

Poll Shows Bipartisan Support for Fossil Fuels to Meet Energy Demands

A recent poll by the American Exploration and Production Council shows that 79% of voters believe oil and natural gas are important for affordable energy, with bipartisan support for expanding fossil fuel production. The findings come as energy prices rise, with 79% of respondents reporting increased energy bills over the past year.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00
PBS NewsHour

Trump Administration Reports Annual Revenue Loss of $19B-$26B Due to Tariff Evasion

The Trump administration estimates it is losing between $19 billion and $26 billion annually in revenue due to tariff evasion by countries like China. The practice of transshipping, where goods are sent to other nations for processing to circumvent tariffs, has been highlighted as a significant factor since the tariffs were implemented in 2018.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
Washington Examiner

Sean Duffy addresses gas prices and inflation during press conference

Sean Duffy, the Transportation Secretary, received backlash on social media after discussing inflation and gas prices during a press conference in Michigan. He highlighted that current gas prices are $1 higher than last year and attributed the situation to geopolitical issues while discussing the Trump administration's energy policies.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
Al Jazeera English

Russia's Economy Faces Challenges Amid Increased Oil Revenue

Russia's economy is under strain from a growing deficit and military actions in Ukraine, as reported on August 13, 2026. However, the ongoing war in the Middle East has contributed to a rise in oil revenue.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10
Fox News — Politics

Trump and Abbott Diverge on Data Center Development in Texas

The artificial intelligence boom is leading to a significant increase in data center construction in Texas, creating a divide between President Trump and Governor Abbott over infrastructure costs. Abbott has called for data centers to cover their own costs, while Trump argues for the economic benefits of these projects. The situation underscores the challenges Texas faces in balancing industry growth with the potential impact on residents.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00