"The report, issued by the Commerce Department on Tuesday, surprised economists who were looking for growth despite mounting concerns about slowing job growth, uncertainty about President Donald Trump's tariffs and other economic headwinds. And it raised questions about shoppers' ability to spend after they have remained resilient for months despite souring consumer confidence, economists said."
"Retail sales were flat in December from November, when business was up 0.6%, according to the Commerce Department. Economists were expecting a 0.4% increase for December. The report was delayed because of the 43-day government shutdown."
"The retail sales figures, which are not adjusted for inflation, showed that many types of businesses posted declines including furniture and home furnishings stores and electronics and appliance retailers. Among the few bright spots: building materials and garden stores, which posted a solid sales increase. Gas stations and food and beverage stores saw small sales gains."
Retail sales were flat in December from November, unexpectedly missing economists' projections and reflecting growing economic headwinds such as slowing job growth and tariff uncertainty. The Commerce Department report, delayed by a 43-day government shutdown, followed mixed monthly retail performance through the year. Many retail categories posted declines, notably furniture, home furnishings, electronics, and appliance retailers, while building materials, garden stores, gas stations, and food and beverage outlets recorded gains. The retail figures exclude most services; restaurants slipped 0.1%. Consumer confidence deteriorated sharply into January, raising concerns about consumers' ability to sustain spending.
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