WSJ Minute Briefing U.S. Consumers’ Moods Sour in November
Nov 7, 2025
Consumer sentiment in the U.S. has hit a significant low, dropping to 50.3 in November, nearly matching last year's record lows. Meanwhile, Nexperia microchips are shipping out of China again after a turbulent trade standoff. In the retail sector, IKEA faces a staggering 32% profit drop to 1.5 billion euros, largely due to rising tariffs and material costs. These shifts in the economy reflect broader trends that could impact consumers and businesses alike.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Consumer Sentiment Near 2022 Lows
- Consumer sentiment fell to 50.3 in November, down from 53.6 in October.
- The level is near 2022 lows from historic inflation, signaling weakened consumer mood.
Nexperia Shipments Resume From China
- Nexperia microchips began exporting from China again after export halts last month.
- Shipments resumed after diplomatic meetings and China's pledge to grant export licenses in eligible cases.
China Eases Export Controls
- China said it would grant export licenses in eligible cases after high-level talks.
- That policy shift eased immediate supply concerns for auto-industry microchips.