"Surprising Surge: US Retail Sales Defy Inflation Concerns"

Despite facing high interest rates and steep prices, Americans increased their spending in March, with retail sales jumping 0.7%, exceeding economists' forecasts. Excluding volatile measurements, sales climbed 1%, but the data is not adjusted for inflation. While consumers continue to spend at gas stations, grocery stores, and online retailers, they pulled back spending at electronics, clothing, and furniture stores. The strong job market and wage increases have supported consumer spending, but economists anticipate caution as student loan payments resume and credit card debt reaches record levels.