Signal brief

Rising energy costs tied to the Iran conflict have translated into roughly $60 billion of increased spending by U.S. consumers, with per-household energy expenses averaging about $447.19 since the war began. Gas and airline-fare costs have surged, while Costco disclosed record gas-volume activity at the end of its fiscal quarter, suggesting near-term traffic benefits from cheaper fuel at COST locations. Goldman Sachs warns that higher energy prices could erode consumer spending through 2026, creating a mixed macro backdrop for COST’s earnings trajectory.

• Moody's: average household energy costs up $447.19 since the Iran war.
• Total energy-related impact to U.S. consumers near $60 billion.
• Gas ~$4.39/gal and diesel ~$5.52/gal, both up ~47% since March.
• Costco reports record gas volumes at quarter-end as drivers seek cheaper fuel.