Increase in Retail Sales in the USA in September

• Retail sales increased by 0.2% in September.
• The high unemployment rate at 4.4% may impact spending.
• Sales forecasts for the holiday season exceed $1 trillion.

Retail sales in the USA rose by 0.2% in September compared to August, according to data from the Department of Commerce. This increase has been sustained for more than a month due to government restrictions.

Consumer spending remains an important factor for the economy, despite high prices for food products, fuel, and imported goods, which fall under tariffs. Economists predict that the increase in consumer spending could boost economic growth to 3% or more in the third quarter, following a hidden increase of 1.6% in the first half of the year.

However, the unemployment rate in September rose to 4.4%, which is the highest indicator in almost four years. The high income level of consumers partly contributes to the increase in sales, although consumers with low income seek reductions and spend more on essential goods.

The sales report indicates the importance of the upcoming winter holiday season, when retailers receive up to five parts of their income. The National Retail Federation predicts that this year's sales will exceed $1 trillion for the first time.

Tags: USA/Economy