Retail sales decreased unexpectedly in the United States

Contrary to the expectations, retail sales decreased unexpectedly in January in the United States with the highest extent of the past 11 months – according to a statement published by the Census Bureau (CB).

Instead of the expected 0.2 percent increase, retail sales declined by 0.3 percent to 492.0 billion USD in January, compared to the 493.3 billion USD of December. In December, retail turnover did not change on a monthly basis.

The 0.3 percent decrease in retail sales in January is the biggest drop since February 2017, mainly due to a decline in car sales. (MTI)