Consumer Sentiment Fell Slightly in March

Consumer sentiment fell slightly in March suggesting some caution on the part of Americans facing better job prospects but a still uncertain global economy.

The University of Michigan final consumer sentiment index for March, released Friday, registered at 91.0. That is down from the final February reading of 91.7. The preliminary March reading, released two weeks ago, was 90.0.

Economists surveyed by The Wall Street Journal had expected the March index reading of 90.4.

The relative stability in recent months reflects "more positive personal finances being offset by less favorable prospects for the economy," said Richard Curtin, the survey's chief economist.

Write to Eric Morath at eric.morath@wsj.com