Consumer Pulse: Understanding How Consumers Navigate Economic Change

How is Economic Uncertainty Shaping Consumerism Today?

From tariff policy and interest rates to inflation and market fluctuation, economic uncertainty is pervasive and growing.

What does it all mean for consumers – their habits, attitudes, fears and priorities? And what are the implications for brands seeking to engage with them?

Through Online Anthropology, Material Spotlight and cultural insights, Material’s ongoing content series uncovers the human impact of economic uncertainty – and how brands can respond.

KEY FINDINGS AS OF APRIL 2026

Consumers Are Looking for Deals as Inflation + Gas Prices Spike

As inflation and gas prices rise to their highest levels in years, consumers are increasingly expressing concerns about their personal finances. At Material, we’re tracking these conversations to uncover insights into their needs, worries and behavior.

The full report, at the link below, details our latest findings.

Deal hunting as a motivation is up

21%

year-over-year

Conversations about gas prices are up

196%

over January/February

Worries about food prices are up

42%

in the first half of April

These conversations are the tip of the iceberg. By drilling into specific sectors, topics, categories and trends, brands can better engage with and serve consumers during times of economic uncertainty.