Consumer sentiment slides to near lowest level on record as government shutdown drags on
1. U.S. consumer sentiment at lowest level in three years, impacting economic outlook. 2. Preliminary November sentiment reading was 50.3, below expected 53.2. 3. 17% drop in current personal finances reflects consumer economic worries. 4. Inflation expectations increased slightly, complicating Fed interest rate decisions. 5. Household debt reaches record levels amid economic concerns.