Tag: inflation

Retail sales rose solidly in March despite consumer worries over rising tariffs, with strong income growth, low energy costs, and larger tax refunds supporting spending, though ongoing trade policy uncertainty continues to dampen consumer confidence.

Retail sales grew modestly in March after two months of declines, driven partly by consumers stocking up ahead of rising tariffs.

Due to new sweeping tariffs, US import cargo at major ports is expected to drop sharply starting next month, with imports predicted to fall by at least 20 percent in the second half of 2025.

Data released by the US Census Bureau shows retail sales increased again in September as employment grew and inflation and interest rates fell.

Retail sales increased again in August as consumer demand and easing inflation overcame slower job growth, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, released by the NRF.

Consumer spending is expected to reach a total of $22.4 billion this Easter, according to the annual survey released by the NRF and Prosper Insights & Analytics.

The Census Bureau said overall retail sales in February were up 0.6% seasonally adjusted from January and up 1.5% unadjusted year over year.

Inflation and the Federal Reserve’s efforts to bring inflation under control will continue to play a major role in the economy this year.

Retail sales showed a strong beginning for the year in January, nearly matching December’s busy holiday spending and rising significantly year over year.

Consumers spent more than expected amid high inflation and interest rates during 2023, though spending is now expected to slow in 2024.