Flat retail sales signal weakening consumer sentiment despite strong GDP forecasts
By
Jim Tyson
Summary
Retail spending remains flat and consumer sentiment is gloomy, contradicting optimistic forecasts of solid economic growth. The Atlanta Fed estimates Q4 GDP growth at 3.7%, while Fed officials project 2.3% growth for this year and 1.7% for 2025. The disconnect between weak household spending and resilient stock market signals suggests underlying economic fragility.
Source
bskyFlat retail sales signal weakening consumer sentiment despite strong GDP forecastscfodive.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledSoft retail spending and indications of a gloomy mood among U.S. households contradict the upbeat message from resilience in the stock market and forecasts that economic growth will remain solid in coming quarters.
The economy likely expanded during the fourth quarter at an annual rate of 3.7%, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta estimated on Tuesday.
Policymakers trimmed t
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