Bitcoin and Nasdaq Rallies Contrast Sharply With Record-Low U.S. Consumer Sentiment

Gains in Bitcoin and the Nasdaq could ordinarily boost consumption through the wealth effect, but the University of Michigan’s consumer survey shows households remain under pressure from inflation, living costs and tariffs. Bitget Wallet said institutional capital is flowing into AI, semiconductors and digital assets as markets bet on long-term productivity, creating a disconnect with consumers’ immediate financial realities.

As of CoinDesk’s May 11, 2026 report, Bitcoin had risen 11.8% in April and nearly 6% further in May to $80,700. The Nasdaq had gained 22% since April 1 to a record 23,235, while the S&P 500 had climbed more than 12% to 7,398. The University of Michigan’s preliminary reading released May 8 was just 48.2, down from 49.8 in April and 7.7% lower from a year earlier, marking a record low.