The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said it expects US inflation to average 4.2% in 2026. US annualized price growth was 2.4% in February 2026, according to the OECD.

Oil prices increased following the onset of the Iran war. Higher fuel costs have increased prices for flights, shipping services, and groceries.

Economic indicators showed mixed signals across multiple sectors. Thirty-year fixed mortgage rates increased in March 2026 after a period of decline, while the latest jobs report showed employment losses across various white- and blue-collar sectors following months of growth.

Pantheon Macroeconomics estimated that US household wealth could decrease by up to $1.5 trillion in the quarter ending March 2026. A major consumer confidence indicator fell to its lowest level since December 2025.