U.S. retail sales barely rise, pointing to weak spots in the economy
The numbers: Sales at retailers rose a tepid 0.2% in June, reflecting a shift in consumer spending habits and signaling softness in some parts of...
The U.S. Consumer Is Starting to Freak Out
Listen to article (2 minutes) The engine of the U.S. economy—consumer spending—is starting to sputter. Retail purchases have fallen in three of the past four...
Inflation Takes Biggest Bite From Middle-Income Households
Listen to article (2 minutes) Inflation is often called a tax on the poor, but this time it’s hit middle-income households the hardest. Many low-income...
Americans Cautious About Spending as Holiday Season Nears
U.S. consumers appear to be approaching the holiday season somewhat cautiously, according to The Conference Board. The private research group’s Holiday Spending Survey found consumers...