U.S. Retail Sales See Sharp Decline Amid Weather Challenges and Tariff Uncertainty
Retail sales dropped 0.9% in January, the largest decline in a year, influenced by severe cold weather and rising inflation pressures.
U.S. consumers put a lid on their spending to kick off 2025, potentially indicating weaker economic growth prospects.
US Retail Sales Record Sharpest Drop Since March 2023
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With consumer spending making up about two-thirds of all economic activity in the U.S., the sales numbers indicate a potential weakening in growth for the first quarter.
Retail sales slumped 0.9% in January, down much more than expected
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The tail-off in sales may provide some measure of reassurance for the Federal Reserve, after a very hot read on inflation for January, that the economy may not be overheating.
US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January after a bustling holiday season
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Retail sales dropped by the most in nearly two years in January, likely because of frigid temperatures and moderation following hefty gains in the past four months, suggesting a sharp slowdown in economic growth early in the first quarter.
Retail sales post largest drop in nearly two years in January amid tariff uncertainty
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With consumer spending making up about two-thirds of all economic activity in the U.S., the sales numbers indicate a potential weakening in growth for the first quarter.
Retail sales slumped 0.9% in January, down much more than expected
CNBC·1M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
In addition to cold weather, the decline could reflect falling consumer confidence as reflected in recent surveys by the Conference Board and University of Michigan.
US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January
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The decline could reflect declines in consumer confidence that were picked up in two recent surveys.
U.S. retail sales plunged last month as consumers pulled back after busy holiday season
Washington Times·1M·Mostly ReliableThis source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.Leans RightThis outlet slightly leans right.The tail-off in sales may provide some measure of reassurance for the Federal Reserve, after a very hot read on inflation for January, that the economy may not be overheating.
US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January after a bustling holiday season
Associated Press·1M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
U.S. retail sales experienced a notable 0.9% decline in January, the most significant drop in a year, mainly due to extreme cold weather limiting consumer spending. Auto sales fell 2.8% and online sales decreased by 1.9%, despite increases at general merchandise stores. January witnessed the lowest temperatures since 1988, particularly affecting southern states. Economists highlighted potential impacts from rising prices and uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s tariff proposals. Consumer confidence appears to be waning, as indicated by recent surveys, yet steady employment and wage growth hint at ongoing economic expansion.
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