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.

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US Retail Sales Record Sharpest Drop Since March 2023

Epoch Times

Retail sales slumped 0.9% in January, down much more than expected

NBC News

US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January after a bustling holiday season

Boston Herald

Retail sales post largest drop in nearly two years in January amid tariff uncertainty

New York Post

Retail sales post largest drop in nearly two years in January amid tariff uncertainty

New York Post

Retail sales slumped 0.9% in January, down much more than expected

CNBC

US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January

ABC News

U.S. retail sales plunged last month as consumers pulled back after busy holiday season

Washington Times

US retail sales plunged along with temperatures in January after a bustling holiday season

Associated Press

Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

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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