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Analysis

Two series, one timeline

Overlay any two indicators over the window where both exist. Jan 1978 to Apr 2026.

Consumer Sentiment (Index 1966:Q1=100) Unemployment Rate (Percent)
1980 Recession1981-82 Recession1990-91 Recession2001 RecessionGlobal Financial CrisisCOVID-19 Recession50607080901001104%6%8%10%12%14%19801990200020102020

Left axis: Consumer Sentiment · UMCSENT. Right axis: Unemployment Rate · UNRATE. Both from FRED, latest-revised, read from cache.

Correlation is not causation. Two lines moving together is not one moving the other. A shared trend often traces back to a third force, or to chance. This tool overlays the data. It does not explain it.