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Retail Sales

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US retail spending stalls in December as inflation and gloom weigh in
business15 days ago

US retail spending stalls in December as inflation and gloom weigh in

U.S. retail sales were unchanged in December, missing economists’ expectations of about 0.4% growth and reversing November’s gain. The flat month came as furniture and miscellaneous stores fell (-0.9% each) while home improvement rose 1.2%, and the control group slipped 0.1%. The report, seasonally adjusted but not inflation-adjusted, was delayed by last year’s government shutdown. Despite slower hiring and stubborn inflation, Americans haven’t slashed spending, but December’s stagnation suggests consumer activity may be nearing a spending ceiling.

Wage gains and lower mortgage rates buoy Main Street economy
economy1 month ago

Wage gains and lower mortgage rates buoy Main Street economy

New data show wage gains and stronger consumer demand on Main Street: real weekly earnings rose 1.42% in 2025, retail sales climbed 3.3% year-over-year in November, and December existing-home sales rose 5.1% as mortgage rates cooled to about 6.19%. Inflation remains elevated (CPI +0.3% in December, core CPI +0.2%), keeping Fed policy in focus with rate cuts unlikely in the near term. Housing inventories remain tight, but analysts expect more listings in February, signaling a cautiously improving economy amid ongoing headwinds.

Markets Hold Steady Ahead of Key Data as Powell Probe Steals Spotlight
business1 month ago

Markets Hold Steady Ahead of Key Data as Powell Probe Steals Spotlight

U.S. Treasury yields were broadly flat as markets awaited the November Producer Price Index, December retail sales, and December existing home sales data, after December CPI rose 2.7% year over year. The 10-year yield hovered near 4.16%, the 2-year around 3.52%, and the 30-year about 4.82%. Separately, Fed Chair Jerome Powell faces a criminal investigation linked to the $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed HQ, renewing concerns about central-bank independence, though global policymakers defended independence.

US Economy Shows Signs of Strain Amid Inflation and Tariff Challenges
economy2 months ago

US Economy Shows Signs of Strain Amid Inflation and Tariff Challenges

Recent US economic data shows warning signs with rising unemployment and stagnant retail sales, indicating a potential slowdown amid mixed signals of resilience in sectors like healthcare and construction. The reports, delayed by the government shutdown, suggest a cautious outlook for the economy, with the Federal Reserve having recently cut interest rates to support growth.

China's Economy Slows Amid Consumption Woes and Investment Decline
economy2 months ago

China's Economy Slows Amid Consumption Woes and Investment Decline

China's November retail sales growth sharply missed expectations, indicating a deepening economic slowdown with declines in consumption, investment, and industrial output, amid ongoing property sector struggles and cautious consumer sentiment. Despite government pledges for policy support, concerns remain about the sustainability of growth and reliance on exports, with calls for structural reforms and increased domestic demand measures.

U.S. Stock Futures Dip Amid Mixed Market Trends
markets2 months ago

U.S. Stock Futures Dip Amid Mixed Market Trends

U.S. stock futures declined after a strong rally last week, with investors taking profits amid ongoing economic concerns and upcoming Federal Reserve rate cuts. Oil prices rose following OPEC+ plans to maintain output levels, while Bitcoin and other commodities experienced mixed movements. Retail sales hit a record online, but market analysts warn of potential overreactions. The market's recent performance suggests cautious optimism for December, with focus on the Fed's upcoming decision.