Expectations Index at 68.2: consumers' outlook sinks below the recession line
The Conference Board's Expectations Index tumbled 5.8 points to 68.2 in August, back below the 80 level that has historically flagged a recession within 12 months. All three forward components worsened, even as the Present Situation Index improved. That split — today feels tolerable, tomorrow looks worse — keeps the downturn question very much alive.