Consumer confidence slides to 12-year low

Consumer confidence fell to a 12-year low in September, according to The Conference Board. The index has been trending down for a couple years, but this latest decline was steep. One reason? Upper-middle class respondents are starting to feel the pressure, too. Also in this episode: The economic forces behind GDP growth might run out of steam soon, the low-hire low-fire labor market marches on, and high diesel prices keep some Gulf shrimpers on dry land.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Read the stories in today’s episode:

• How long can the economy keep growing?
• The latest JOLTS survey shows more of the same low-hire, low-fire economy
• Consumer confidence falls to its lowest level in 12 years, survey shows
• The price tag might be an endangered species
• High diesel prices force some Gulf shrimpers to stay docked
• New career path, new baby, no problem