Financial decisions are shaped by how people think and feel about money. Emotions like confidence, uncertainty, and fear of missing out (FOMO) can play a major role in everyday spending as well as long-term planning.

The upshot is optimism prevails in Americans’ money mindset. Empower research shows that most (58%) believe they will achieve financial success in their lifetime, even if obstacles appear along the way. Gen Z and Millennials are especially optimistic, with 71% and 70%, respectively, confident about where they’re headed financially.

— The Editors 

⛽ Fuel for thought: Gasoline prices dropped 6.3% in March compared to the previous month, and are down 9.8% for the past 12 months, helping to slow overall year-over-year inflation to 2.4%.

🛒 Spending spotlight: Buy-now, pay-later lender Affirm* will begin reporting “pay-in-four" loan activity to Experian starting in mid-May. These short-term installment plans have typically flown under the credit radar, but that’s changing. Adding this data to credit reports can give lenders a fuller view of consumers’ debt habits, potentially affecting credit scores and borrowing decisions.

🍟 Fast food flex: Quick eats are accelerating. U.S. fast-food revenues are projected to hit $417.5 billion this year, while global sales are expected to climb to $1.25 trillion by 2033. With 43% of orders rolling through the drive-thru, restaurants are responding to the psychology of speed and designing experiences around convenience, habit, and impulse.

💲 The bigger picture: Tariffs are on the minds of many. Find out more on The Currency^TM about the impact on the economy, inflation, and even the bond market.

Work in progress

Call it a workcation? With 66% of employees working remotely at least once a week, more people are blending work and travel. Empower research shows 49% of workers check email when they’re off, and 42% go a step farther and respond.

Meanwhile, the labor market continues to show resilience. The U.S. economy added 228,000 jobs in March. Some of the biggest job gains* were in healthcare (+54,000), social assistance (+24,000), and transportation and warehousing (+23,000).

Shift the date

More than 2 in 5 Americans say a wedding isn't worth the splurge, according to Empower research, with the average big day costing $31,281. But keeping an open mind can lead to flexible pricing. Some venues are offering* discounts for couples willing to say “I do” on off-peak dates or fill last-minute cancellations.

Wellness wins

Outdoor recreation season is in full swing, with hiking, biking, and paddling contributing to a $1.2 trillion economy. But even indoors, mental wellness is gaining traction — luxury cars now offer* mood lighting, meditation modes, and aromatherapy. Whether behind the wheel or out on the trail, how people feel continues to shape how they spend.