Author: Julia Fanzeres

Oil rallied the most in more than a year after OPEC+ unexpectedly announced output cuts that threaten to tighten the market and deliver a fresh inflationary jolt to the world economy.

West Texas Intermediate crude futures dropped below $100 a barrel for the first time since May 11 as concerns grow that a global economic slowdown will ultimately hobble demand.

U.S. consumer sentiment fell in February to a six-month low as expectations remained weak even while lawmakers moved closer to approving another round of financial relief.

Consumer confidence rose in February to a three-month high as Americans grew more upbeat about the current labor market and economy’s progress.

Consumer sentiment unexpectedly declined to a six-month low in early February as the outlook for personal income deteriorated and more Americans anticipated faster inflation in the year ahead.

U.S. consumer sentiment cooled more than forecast in January, adding to signs consumers may be growing less optimistic as vaccinations roll out amid soaring new infections.