AssetID: 55456311
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: US Consumer Spending Slows In December As Economic Questions Grow
Caption: US Consumer Spending Slows In December As Economic Questions Grow. Consumer spending in the United States slowed sharply in December, raising fresh concerns about the strength of the economy. Retail sales were unexpectedly flat over the holiday period, according to figures released by the US Commerce Department. That marked a slowdown from November’s 0.6% rise and suggested households may be pulling back after months of resilient spending. Economists point to a softer labour market, stubborn inflation and cooling wage growth as factors behind the weaker performance. While sales still rose 2.4% compared with a year earlier, that pace was down from November’s 3.3% annual increase. Spending declined in several key categories, including furniture and clothing — sectors already facing pressure from tariffs. Consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of US economic activity, making the slowdown significant. Analysts say it remains unclear whether December’s figures signal a deeper downturn or simply a temporary pause, with upcoming data on jobs and growth expected to provide a clearer picture. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Current Affairs & Politics,United States,US,Consumer spending,December,November,US Commerce Department,figures,released,holiday period,retail,clothing,furniture,weaker,performance,expected,economy,downturn
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