With the current state of affairs, it is not surprising that a majority of the releases scheduled for this week have been delayed until next week. The only notable report set to be released is the consumer sentiment report, which has been showing month-to-month declines. This has led to a very light week, with a heavy slate of inflation data scheduled for release next week. The PCE Index and CPI are both scheduled for next week.
Consumer Sentiment
The University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index fell sharply to 53.3 in March 2026, down from the preliminary estimate of 55.5 and below February’s 56.6. This places sentiment near record lows observed at the end of 2025, with declines spanning all age groups and political affiliations.
Households with middle and higher incomes, as well as those with stock wealth, experienced the steepest drops in confidence. The downturn reflects the impact of rising gas prices and financial market volatility, both exacerbated by the ongoing Iran conflict.
Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
- 15-Year FRM rates saw an increase of 0.21%, with the current rate at 5.75%
- 30-Year FRM rates saw an increase of 0.16%, with the current rate at 6.38%
MND Rate Index
- 30-Year FHA rates saw an increase of 0.10%, with current rates at 6.10%
- 30-Year VA rates saw an increase of 0.11%, with current rates at 6.12%
Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 210,000 compared to the expected claims of 210,000. The prior week landed at 205,000.
What’s Ahead
CPI and PCE Index data is set to release the next week along with other notable delayed releases such as unemployment data.