#MarketPullback Financial optimism among American households has sharply declined as economic reality fails to meet expectations, according to a new survey released this week by digital finance company Achieve.
While 57% of consumers anticipated financial improvement last year, only 32% actually experienced gains, revealing a significant “optimism gap” that signals deepening economic stress for many Americans.
The survey found 33% of respondents reported worsening financial situations over the past year – a stark contrast to the mere 10% who predicted decline in Achieve’s initial survey last spring.
“Households enter 2025 more pessimistic and with fewer financial gains in hand than most were expecting,” said Brad Stroh, Achieve’s co-founder and co-CEO. “The optimism gap is a warning sign that highlights the need for tools and strategies that address the financial strain facing households.”
