Grim Retail Sales Data Fuels Concerns About Health of US Economy.
The latest figures from the Commerce Department revealed that US retail sales rose just 0.2% in September, a sharp slowdown from August’s 0.6% increase. Economists had anticipated stronger consumer spending, but higher prices and rising business costs appear to be weighing heavily on households.
The disappointing numbers arrive after a record-long government shutdown delayed the release of official data, adding to uncertainty in financial markets. Analysts warn that softening demand could persist, especially as tariffs and inflation continue to erode affordability.
Market reaction was cautious, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq gains moderating as investors reassessed the outlook for consumer health and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. Meanwhile, surveys suggest holiday spending may also weaken, with PwC forecasting a 5% drop in seasonal spending compared to last year—the steepest decline in five years.
Taken together, these indicators paint a troubling picture: consumer spending, the backbone of the US economy, is losing momentum. With inflation still biting and labor markets showing signs of strain, economists caution that the slowdown in retail sales could signal broader economic fragility heading into 2026.
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