Today's Article

The 2Consumer Sentiment Index, which measures how people feel about the economy, has improved recently but is still lower than a year ago.

Experts say two big reasons are 3turmoil in the Middle East and possible tariffs.

"We've seen consumer and business confidence taking some hits because of all of this."

Mark Hamrick with the financial company Bankrate says when you look at many of the 4indicators of how the economy is doing, the numbers are positive.

June had a 5stronger-than-expected jobs report and the latest Consumer Price Index, which tracks the price of a variety of goods, showed inflation was cooling.

So why do many Americans feel 6uneasy about the economy?

"There has been a 7misalignment between so-called 'soft data' and 'hard data', soft data being that which measures attitudes or 8sentiment, and the actual behavior — what people do."

Housing prices continue to rise and mortgage rates are still high. Those expenses account for a large portion of people's monthly budgets.

Hamrick says there are some personal finance behaviors that may help consumers feel a little better about their wallet during times of 9economic uncertainty.

"Make sure your savings is 10adequate. Pay down debt."

Hamrick says 11take a hard look at your spending and put more money into a 12high-yield savings account, which pays an annual return of about 4%. That's much higher than just a regular savings account.

Also look into 13certificates of deposit, known as CDs. Those accounts also offer a 14fixed 15rate of return.

And don't forget to put money into a retirement account, like a 16401(k).