Kerry Lutz sits down with Jay Mehta to break down a stronger-than-expected consumer confidence report—but the story beneath the surface is far more complicated. Mehta explains why confidence is rising, pointing to a still-resilient labor market and households that continue to spend. But despite the upbeat data, the bigger question is how long this strength can actually last. Rising energy costs are starting to creep back into the picture, and they hit lower-income households the hardest—threatening to squeeze discretionary spending and shift the trajectory of the broader economy. So far, sentiment hasn't cracked… but the pressure is building. Mehta explains why investors shouldn't react emotionally to short-term shocks, how to stay positioned with a long-term strategy, and why the energy sector is one to watch closely in the months ahead. The consumer may look strong today—but the risks are quietly stacking up. Find Jay here: https://verazadvisors.com Find Kerry here :https://khlfsn.substack.com and here: https://inflation.cafe    Kerry's New Book "The Armstrong Economic Code: The 5 Truths Investors Must Never Forget" is out now on Amazon!  Get your copy here:   https://a.co/d/bvYbZOz  "The World According to Martin Armstrong – Conversations with the Master Forecaster" is a #1 Best Seller on Amazon. . Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/4kuC5p5