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Consumer Analysis: Spending Nov 19, 2009Regional Spending Comparison 2008 Housing remains the dominant expense, but it varies significantly by region.  Nov 18, 2009Online Retail Sales Maintain Recovery Consumers remain cautious, and growth will be slow through spring.  Nov 18, 2009Consumer Prices Are Still Rising Despite lower consumer confidence, there is no sign of falling prices yet. Nov 13, 2009 Why Is Spending Improving While the Job Market Is Sinking? Better-educated, higher-income households have supported increased spending in recent months. Nov 13, 2009 Long-Term Drivers of Vehicle Sales: The New Normal Once pent-up demand from recession is released, vehicle sales will stabilize below prerecession pace. Nov 12, 2009 Aging Baby Boomers and Consumer Markets Aging boomers will create disequilibrium in consumer markets. Nov 10, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 7 Small decline in ICSC ends six straight weekly gains. Nov 04, 2009 Vehicle Sales Start Down Slow Road to Recovery Sales improve more than expected in October. Nov 04, 2009 Energy Took a Greater Share in 2008 The burden on consumers has intensified in recent years; 2009 is likely only a temporary reprieve. Oct 27, 2009 Spending Distribution Improves Odds of Recovery High-income households cut back the most in 2008. Oct 15, 2009 Inflation Stayed Level in September Moderating gasoline and service prices are keeping core inflation low. Oct 14, 2009 More Evidence of Firmer Spending in September Sales But lack of cash remains a constraint. Oct 08, 2009 Chain Store Sales Declines End September sales lifted by easing comparisons and calendar effects. Oct 07, 2009 2008 Consumer Expenditure Survey Highlights Survey shows consumer habits early in the recession. Oct 02, 2009 Vehicle Sales Fall After Clunkers Incentive Ends Vehicle sales return to their previous pace. Oct 01, 2009 Consumer Spending Surges in August Cash for clunkers lifts vehicle sales and total spending. Sep 29, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 26 Sales are not moving consistently in either direction. Sep 25, 2009 Michigan Confidence Jumps in Late September Consumers may be starting to believe the recession is over. Sep 22, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 19 Typical seasonal spending plunge masks flat trend. Sep 16, 2009 Inflation Is Slowing Rather Than Speeding Up Gasoline pushes up top-line CPI, but other consumer price growth slows. Sep 15, 2009 August Retail Sales Surprisingly Strong But they do not signal a change in consumer behavior. Sep 15, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 12 Weaker comparisons send year-ago growth higher. Sep 08, 2009 Consumers Will Struggle in Early 2010 Many weights will remain even with the recession over. Sep 02, 2009 Cash for Clunkers Drives Vehicle Sales Higher Sales will fall now that the incentive has expired. Aug 28, 2009 Prices Stay Flat in July The economy is on the mend, but deflation is still a serious downside risk. Aug 28, 2009 No Improvement in Confidence Yet Gains will gradually come as consumers realize the recession is ending. Aug 17, 2009 Online Retail Sales Grew for Second Straight Quarter E-commerce sales have likely bottomed, but recovery will be slow. Aug 14, 2009 Inflation Is Not Around the Corner Without rising gasoline prices, inflation still trends downward. Aug 04, 2009 Core Inflation Holds, Top-Line Edges Up Higher gasoline prices push up top-line inflation, but core prices remain steady in June. Aug 04, 2009 Vehicle Sales Take Off With Government Help About 250,000 consumers cash-in their clunkers. Jul 27, 2009 Recession Changes Shopping Behavior Consumers focus on necessities, not housing-related goods. Jul 24, 2009 Services Spending Share Has Steadily Grown The change has been driven by inflation and economic shifts. Jul 21, 2009 Consumer Spending on Vehicles Has Improved Modestly The disappointing sales in June were due to weak sales to businesses and the government. Jul 15, 2009 Consumer Energy Prices Jump, Core Prices Hold Higher prices at the gasoline pump led to a jump in top-line inflation for June, but core prices are steady. Jul 03, 2009 Vehicle Sales Take Wrong Turn in June Real spending likely fell 1% at an annual rate in the second quarter. Jul 01, 2009 Uneven Gains in Confidence Future improvement in sentiment hinges on labor and housing markets. Jun 30, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending June 27 Tentative signs that the recent spending slump is nearing an end. Jun 26, 2009 U.S. Still at Risk of Deflation Despite improved confidence, slow consumer spending is still pulling down retail prices. Jun 26, 2009 Consumers Choosing to Save Rather Than Spend Flat real spending trends are better than last year's steep declines. Jun 26, 2009 Michigan Confidence Resumes Its Ascent Confidence improves in late June after holding steady for two months. Jun 19, 2009 Cash-for-Clunkers Attempts to Jump-Start Vehicle Sales The bill will only have a modest impact on sales. Jun 17, 2009 Consumers Will Not Spend Merrily Holiday sales will not fall as fast as spending is now, though. Jun 12, 2009 Surging Permanent Joblessness Means a Long Labor Market Recovery Joblessness at a record high for prime-age men. Jun 05, 2009 Share of Spending on Nondurable Goods Has Fallen Within the segment, however, the composition of spending has shifted more subtly. Jun 02, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending May 30 Both measures show slightly positive year-ago sales growth. Jun 01, 2009 Consumer Spending Inched Lower in April Spending is weak, but it is no longer in free fall. May 27, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending May 23 Mixed reports consistent with flat spending growth. May 19, 2009 A Historical Overview of Spending Trends Consumer spending patterns have changed greatly since the 1950s. May 19, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending May 16 Year-ago growth in both measures falls back below zero. May 15, 2009 Consumer Prices: Service Prices Up, Energy Prices Down Top-line inflation falls with energy prices, but core prices are still recovering. May 15, 2009 Online Retail Sales Manage Weak Growth E-commerce sales inched up in the first quarter but remain below 2008 levels. May 15, 2009 Upward Trend in Michigan Holds Confidence is climbing out of the cellar but remains very low. Apr 30, 2009 Inflation Holds Steady in March Core PCE inflation holds low and steady for the third straight month. Apr 30, 2009 Spending Slips in March, but Signs of Recovery Remain Consumers spend more of their newfound cash. Apr 14, 2009 Retail Sales Surprisingly Decline in March Special factors and weak fundamentals are to blame. Apr 01, 2009 Government Finds New Ways to Stimulate Spending Policymakers target sales of homes and new vehicles. Mar 27, 2009 Consumer Prices: Stable So Far Consumer prices show no trend toward deflation, or back toward inflation, as of yet. Mar 24, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending March 21 Sales declines accelerate but remain ahead of earlier in the year. Mar 18, 2009 February Inflation: So Far, So Good So far, the U.S. has avoided both deflation and stagflation. Mar 17, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending March 14 Sales growth flattening out, still far behind last year. Mar 12, 2009 Retail Sales Show Spending Declines Have Moderated Income increase in January lifted spending. Mar 04, 2009 Beige Book Paints Grim Picture for Consumers Rising unemployment and declining wages will test household finances. Mar 04, 2009 Vehicle Sales Are Stuck in a Downward Spiral Both fleet and retail customers buy fewer cars. Mar 03, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 28 ICSC and Redbook take a step back; still better than a month ago. Mar 02, 2009 Real Spending Gets a Temporary Lift Several one-time factors boost personal spending and income. Feb 27, 2009 Less Spending Than Thought Late in 2008 But the downward revision was solely due to energy. Feb 24, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 21 Marginal improvement in sales, still lagging behind last year. Feb 18, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 14 Recent sales boost doesn't change weak trend. Feb 13, 2009 No Signs of Improvement in Consumer Sentiment The one index showing some strength falls back. Feb 12, 2009 Recreation Industry Hit Headwinds in 2007 Revenue growth decelerated, further strain ahead. Jan 26, 2009 Excess Inventories May Offer Consumers Bargains Retailer woes in some segments will benefit consumers. Jan 16, 2009 Consumer Prices: Deflation Is Possible but Not Likely Top-line prices fall, but core prices hold steady even with feeble spending. Jan 16, 2009 Recession Casts a Dark Shadow on Medical Expenditures Recession is curtailing medical spending. Jan 15, 2009 Beige Book: More Bad News for Consumers Sharp reduction in bonuses will hurt spending in the first quarter. Jan 06, 2009 Vehicle Sales End Their Free Fall Sales inched upward in December, but they will remain weak for months to come. Jan 06, 2009 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending January 3 Early 2009 improvement not enough to reverse consistent weakness. Dec 31, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 27 A disappointing end to the holiday shopping season. Dec 24, 2008 Falling Prices Lift Real Spending in November A slight improvement in consumer confidence helps as well. Dec 16, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 13 Consumers perhaps holding back for last-minute shopping. Dec 15, 2008 Spending Became Slightly More Balanced in 2007 Highest-income half of households still account for 71% of spending. Dec 09, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 6 A disappointing second week of the holiday shopping season. Dec 09, 2008 Housing Takes Bigger Share of Spending However, growth slowed from previous years' fast pace. Dec 08, 2008 Energy Burden Increased CE survey shows gas led consumers to spend more on energy in 2007. Dec 01, 2008 NBER: U.S. Recession Began in December 2007 The question now is how long and severe will it be. Nov 28, 2008 Consumer Spending at an Inflection Point Spending's share of GDP will decline in the long run. Nov 26, 2008 2007 Consumer Expenditure Survey Highlights Smallest gain in average spending since 2003. Nov 26, 2008 Real Spending Retreats Further in October Lacking confidence, consumers are saving rather than spending. Nov 26, 2008 No Lift to Confidence From Tumbling Gasoline Prices Confidence consistent with a severe consumer recession. Nov 25, 2008 Conference Board Confidence Index Rebounds Modestly But confidence remains consistent with a severe recession. Nov 19, 2008 Consumer Prices Reach Deflation Status Deflation a risk as monthly core CPI inflation falls in October. Nov 19, 2008 Online Retail Sales Slow Sharply E-commerce fails to avoid retail spending slump, outlook dark for the holidays. Nov 13, 2008 Treasury Wants Improved Credit Availability U.S. takes aim at improving households' access to credit. Oct 31, 2008 Real Spending Resumes Its Decline Lacking confidence and cash, consumers reduce spending broadly. Oct 31, 2008 Strong Food Inflation Remains a Burden Inflation is moderating because of declining oil and gasoline costs, but food prices haven't gotten the message. Oct 28, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 25 Low gas prices provide some lift to sales, but only a little. Oct 21, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 18 Falling gas prices outweighed by economic concerns. Oct 14, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 11 Second consecutive weekly gain in ICSC fails to bring hope. Sep 30, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 27 The ICSC's fourth consecutive weekly decline. Sep 24, 2008 Policymakers Act to Combat Financial Crisis Even with the government engaged, the economic fallout will be significant. Sep 09, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 6 Moderating growth as tax rebates' impact fades. Sep 04, 2008 Vehicle Sales Finally Shift Into Forward Gear Light trucks break a year-long losing streak. Aug 29, 2008 Inflation Peaks Just in Time for Consumers PCE inflation is high, but poised to follow energy prices lower. Aug 26, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending August 23 Mixed messages in two chain store sales reports. Aug 15, 2008 E-Commerce Sales Respond to Rebates Internet sales pick up in the second quarter, though year-ago growth slows. Aug 15, 2008 Inflation Gas Pedal Is Off, but Speed Is Still High It will take some time before falling oil and gasoline prices are passed through to lower inflation. Aug 15, 2008 Confidence Surprisingly Slips While up for the month, confidence fell from late July to early August. Aug 13, 2008 Waning Rebate Impact Weighs on Retail Sales in July But modest growth continues outside autos. Aug 06, 2008 Real Spending Takes a Step Backward Demand is exceptionally weak for motor vehicles and other durables. Aug 06, 2008 Inflation Might Have Turned the Corner June's PCE numbers herald slower inflation in the coming year. Aug 04, 2008 Vehicle Sales Are Running on Empty Lower gasoline prices cannot lure buyers into showrooms. Jul 31, 2008 Spending Growth Slowed More Before Rebates Revisions show more slowing in spending growth. Jul 29, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 26 Rebates and lower gas prices lift chain store sales. Jul 25, 2008 Rebates Prove Preventative, Not Healing The gas price blow could have been so much worse. Jul 15, 2008 Retail Sales Concentrated on Necessities in June Pressures on consumer finances remain evident. Jul 02, 2008 Disaster for Vehicle Sales in June Consumers and auto dealers turn away from gas guzzlers in droves. Jun 27, 2008 Inflation Edges Up as Energy Prices Increase Inflation picked up slightly in May, thanks mainly to higher fuel costs. Jun 04, 2008 Truck Sales Downshift Again Vehicle sales suffer as consumer preferences go through a sea change. May 13, 2008 Healthy Gain in April Retail Sales Excluding Autos Sales still dominated by food and energy prices. Mar 28, 2008 The Wait Is Over: Inflation Is Finally Coming Down Core prices showed weaker growth in February. Mar 25, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending March 22 Weakest year-over-year growth in nearly five years by one measure. Mar 06, 2008 Record High Energy Prices Exacerbate Consumer Woes Consumers scale back energy consumption. Feb 29, 2008 Inflation Weighs on Consumers Despite the current economic downturn, inflation for consumer goods and services remains stubbornly high. Feb 26, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 23 Minor improvement in sales growth by one measure. Feb 20, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 16 Energy prices and recession fears weigh on sales. Feb 15, 2008 E-commerce Sales Growth Rebounds in the Fourth Quarter Year-ago growth slows as headwinds strengthen. Feb 14, 2008 Home Cash-Outs: The ATM Is Closed The relationship between refi activity and cash-out volumes weakens. Feb 05, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 2 Year-over-year growth below 2% for fifth consecutive week. Feb 04, 2008 Vehicle Sales Hit the Skids in January Weakening labor market weighs on consumer spending power. Jan 31, 2008 Inflation Pushes the Limits But underlying fundamentals don't support further acceleration. Jan 30, 2008 Consumers Star Once Again Despite modest growth, real spending leads in the third quarter. Jan 29, 2008 Confidence Stabilizing? Conference Board index reversed December gains, but falls no further. Jan 16, 2008 Inflationary Trends Remain Under Control Lower energy prices were some relief this month. Jan 15, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending January 12 Weakest year-over-year growth since July 2003 by one measure. Jan 04, 2008 Vehicle Sales Improve Slightly as 2007 Ends But automakers cannot put a good spin on a bad situation. Jan 02, 2008 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 29 Strong last-minute shopping puts a floor under sales. Dec 26, 2007 Consumers in 2008: Not a Pretty Picture Lower credit quality, spending and wealth growth. Dec 04, 2007 High-Income Households Drive Aggregate Spending Half of households account for 72% of spending. Nov 30, 2007 Underlying Inflation Continues to Hold Steady But energy prices accelerated again in October. Nov 20, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 17 Retailers cross fingers as holiday shopping season approaches. Nov 15, 2007 Energy Takes Up a Larger Chunk of Spending No relief in sight as oil prices remain elevated. Nov 13, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 10 Retailers crossing fingers as holiday season quickly approaches. Oct 02, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 29 Sales growth stalls following two weeks of hefty declines. Sep 10, 2007 Consumers Turn to Credit Cards in July Installment credit continues to advance, led by revolving credit. Sep 06, 2007 Chain Store Sales Show No Financial Market Contagion Though August sales growth is modest. Sep 05, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 1 Another week, another batch of soft sales reports. Aug 31, 2007 No Break from Moderate Spending Trend Spending growth is unlikely to accelerate over the near term. Aug 31, 2007 PCE Inflation Continues to Moderate Slower growth in energy prices helps lower the topline index. Aug 31, 2007 Confidence Crushed by Financial Turmoil But indices remain divergent and decline may have ended. Aug 28, 2007 Confidence Drop in August Confirmed by Conference Board Confidence drops to one-year low. Aug 22, 2007 Investor Jitters Slam Consumer Confidence Sentiment falls to lowest level since Hurricane Katrina. Aug 15, 2007 Inflationary Pressures Continue to Moderate Tame energy prices keep a lid on topline inflation in July. Aug 01, 2007 Rise in July Confidence Confirms Lack of Trend Job and income growth offsets many weights. Jul 31, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 28 Sales improve as back-to-school shoppers hit the stores. Jul 05, 2007 Vehicle Sales Take a Turn for the Worse Domestic vehicles and light trucks were especially hard hit. Jul 02, 2007 New Rules with Small Impacts Neither new lending nor pricing rules will have major effects. Jun 29, 2007 A Decent but Not Spectacular Spending Report Second quarter U.S. consumption growth tracking below 2%. Jun 15, 2007 Core Inflationary Trends Moderate Even though energy prices are a constant source of volatility. May 16, 2007 Slower Growth in Internet Sales But the sales continue to gain ground on brick-and-mortar stores. May 03, 2007 Apparel Inflation Returns The result of shifting cyclical, structural, and political factors. Apr 24, 2007 Home Equity Extraction Boosted Personal Spending According to analysis by Greenspan and Kennedy. Apr 18, 2007 Corn for Ethanol: Modest Impact on Food Prices Corn prices slightly noticeable at retail level. Mar 21, 2007 Bad Loans Heighten Risks for Consumers The troubles in the subprime market will weaken consumer spending, but only slightly. Mar 20, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending March 17 Sales improve but gas prices are back on consumers' radar. Mar 01, 2007 Core Price Growth Picks Up in January Overall index lower due to volatility in energy prices. Feb 21, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 17 Sales growth posts second consecutive decline. Feb 13, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending February 10 Sales are inconsistent, typical for this time of year. Feb 06, 2007 Fresh Energy Pain for Consumers Gas prices have bottomed out, and will rise in the next few months. Feb 02, 2007 Vehicle Sales Hold Steady in January High consumer confidence will drive near-term sales. Feb 01, 2007 Spending Ends 2006 on a Positive Note Spending continues to support aggregate economic growth. Jan 17, 2007 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending January 13 Colder weather and low gasoline prices support sales. Jan 12, 2007 A Decent Holiday Season December retail sales growth surprises, but November revisions offset the surprise. Dec 08, 2006 Weakening Expectations Hurt Michigan Sentiment Current conditions strong in early December. Dec 05, 2006 More of the Same for Autos November’s vehicle sales are flat as auto makers struggle with a saturated market. Nov 17, 2006 E-Tailers Hoping for Happy Holidays E-commerce sales proving resilient to spending slowdown. Nov 03, 2006 A Sign of Things to Come for Autos October’s weaker vehicle sales expected to set the tone for 2007. Oct 03, 2006 Housing Costs Become a Larger Burden Robust house-price growth and high energy costs are to blame. Sep 12, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 9 Sales soften as consumer finances face increasing headwinds. Sep 06, 2006 How Low Will Gas Prices Go? Do not get too excited as consumer fundamentals remain mixed. Aug 18, 2006 More Weakness in Michigan Confidence The sharp drop in early August is likely at least partially temporary. Aug 18, 2006 Alternative Measures of Core Inflation No matter how you slice it consumers face rising prices. Aug 18, 2006 Summer Heat Wilts E-Commerce Sales Growth Interest rate hikes and rising energy prices put the heat on consumers, wilting both e-commerce and retail sales growth. Aug 03, 2006 Consumers Buy More Cars, but Not American Ones U.S vehicle market share sinks to new low. Aug 01, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 29 Chain store sales data continue to show mixed results. Jul 18, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 15 Rising gasoline prices continue to tame spending growth. Jun 13, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending June 10 Chain store sales reports mixed in the latest week. Jun 02, 2006 High Energy Costs Crimp May Vehicle Sales Vehicle sales fall to lowest pace of the year in May. May 31, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending May 27 Another soft report prompts the ICSC to lower its May sales projection. May 18, 2006 Concerns About Gas Prices Mount A number of survey's find that consumers have gas prices on the mind. May 02, 2006 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending April 29 Chain store sales continue to impress on the back of warm weather and the Easter holiday. Apr 13, 2006 Moderate Sales Growth in March Top line matches expectations though some components surprise. Apr 13, 2006 Weak Michigan Confidence Rising gas prices and declining stock prices weigh on confidence. Apr 05, 2006 Mixed Fundamentals for Vehicle Sales Eroding affordability results in more moderate sales. Mar 28, 2006 High Income Households Account for Bulk of Spending Half of households account for less than a third of spending. Feb 02, 2006 Vehicle Sales Surprised on the Upside in January But non-consumer purchases played a role. Jan 11, 2006 Buying Plans Improve Consumer confidence enters 2006 riding a wave of ten consecutive weely gains. Jan 10, 2006 Vehicle Sales Will Weaken Despite Healthy Economy Vehicle industry will not be able to maintain sales that have diverged from trend levels indefinitely. Dec 28, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 24 Chain store sales were positive in the latest week. Dec 20, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending December 17 Chain store sales were mixed, but leaned on the positive end. Dec 09, 2005 Michigan Confidence Recovers The last of the major indices to reach its pre-Katrina range. Dec 02, 2005 A Second Lackluster Month for Auto Sales Vehicles sales expected to remain below trend pace of recent years. Nov 29, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 26 Weekly chain store data showed a healthy, but not stellar, start to holiday shopping. Nov 22, 2005 Another Healthy Quarter for Online Retail Sales But sales growth decelerated slightly in the third quarter. Nov 22, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 19 Chain store sales were mixed in the latest week. Nov 16, 2005 CPI Posts Modest October Gain The core CPI increase was also modest, but largest since March. Nov 15, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 12 Chain store sales were soft in latest week due to warm weather. Nov 14, 2005 Consumers to Face Significantly Higher Heating Expenses Natural gas and heating oil are much more expensive than they were last year. Nov 08, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending November 5 Chain store sales were strong on a weekly basis. Nov 07, 2005 China and U.S. Arrive at Textile Agreement U.S. industry imports in 34 industry categories restricted through 2008. Nov 02, 2005 October Auto Sales Hurt by the Summer's Pull-Ahead Buying October vehicle sales fall to weakest pace since 1998. Nov 01, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 29 Chain store sales were positive in the latest week. Oct 31, 2005 Energy Prices Push Retail Deflator Above 3% Other than gasoline prices, few retail categories show much upward movement. Oct 31, 2005 Spending Patterns Unharmed by Hurricanes Mounting pressures do not faze the U.S. consumer. Oct 25, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 22 Chain store sales were mixed in the latest week. Oct 18, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending October 15 Chain store sales firmed during the latest week. Oct 14, 2005 Consumer Prices Post Big Gain Energy prices gains caused the biggest jump in the CPI in a quarter century. Oct 11, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Weekly Sales Ending October 8 Chain store sales increased again during the first week of October. Oct 05, 2005 Higher Fuel Prices Are Only Part of the Story Higher fuel prices are finally affecting vehicle purchase decisions. Oct 04, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Weekly Sales Ending October 1 Chain store sales increased during the last week of September. Sep 30, 2005 Consumer Inflation Reverses Course August data show a mild acceleration in a number of categories, with Katrina affects still pending. Sep 30, 2005 Consumer Spending Starts to Slow Slowing consumption may weigh on non-essentials spending. Sep 27, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 24 Chain store sales were mixed in the latest week. Sep 20, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 17 Chain store sales were soft during the latest week. Sep 19, 2005 Demographic Diversity Will Shape Future Consumer Income & Spending Demographic diversity is a key element in the strength and resilience of the American economy. Sep 15, 2005 Higher Energy Prices Push Inflation Back To Recent Peak Levels Core inflation remains tame, however. Sep 13, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending September 10 Chain store sales reports were mixed for the week. Sep 09, 2005 Katrina: Impact on the Consumer Outlook Katrina will have significant near-term implications. Sep 06, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending September 2 Modest growth subject to Katrina and gasoline prices. Sep 01, 2005 Other than Gasoline, Retail Prices Still Tame Higher energy prices will begin to affect other prices in the coming months. Sep 01, 2005 Katrina: Impact on Tourism Much depends on how high and how long gasoline prices trend higher. Aug 29, 2005 Katrina: Impacts on Income The composition of spending and income will be impacted more than the levels. Aug 29, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending August 27 Sales come in near the bottom of Wal-Mart's projected range. Aug 26, 2005 Michigan Confidence Falls Sharply At least one measure of confidence tumbled in late August. Aug 22, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending August 20 The retailer held its guidance firm in latest week. Aug 19, 2005 Internet Retail Sales Growth Accelerates Internet sales grew by 7.2% q/q during the second quarter, but their share of total retail sales gained very little. Aug 16, 2005 CPI Posts First Gain in Three Months Higher energy prices will eventually be reflected in core inflation readings. Aug 08, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending August 6 Wal-Mart's recent run is expected to continue in August Aug 05, 2005 Retail Executives Finally Recognize Improved Sales Executive remain upbeat about the outlook. Aug 04, 2005 The Auto Price Wars Continue Employee discount incentive will morph into lower permanent prices. Aug 02, 2005 Retail Inflation Moderates, but Higher Energy Prices Loom Retail price inflation has receded on a year-ago basis, but the respite will be temporary. Aug 02, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 30 Chain store sales growth remained strong in July. Jul 29, 2005 Consumers Stop Saving to Keep up with Economy Annual revisions to spending and income data are minor. Jul 29, 2005 Confidence Threatens to Exceed Recent Range But high energy prices keep it from happening. Jul 25, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending July 23 The retailer's sales guidance holding through the third week in July. Jul 19, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 16 Chain store sales experienced a modest boost in the latest week. Jul 18, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending July 16 Sales during the latest week remain within the retailer's plan. Jul 14, 2005 June Retail Sales Growth Even Stronger Than Expected Surprises in the report were mostly on the upside. Jul 11, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Ending July 9 Wal-Mart expects little slowdown in sales during the month ahead. Jul 08, 2005 Retail Executives Dissatisfied Despite Strong Sales Confidence steady as traffic improves. Jul 08, 2005 Desperate Moves by Big Three Auto Makers Are Good for Consumers New incentives could incite a new price war among domestic auto makers. Jul 06, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending July 2 Chain store sales strong during the final week of June. Jun 30, 2005 Services Spending Remains Stalwart Though total spending growth was weak in May, services spending remains strong. Jun 28, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending June 25 Chain store sales growth slowed in the most recent week. Jun 21, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending June 18 Chain store sales saw a marginal improvement in the latest week. Jun 17, 2005 More Evidence Confidence Has Turned All three major indices are decisively off their recent lows though all remain rangebound. Jun 14, 2005 Retail Sales Fall There were several factors responsible for the May decline, some fundamental, some technical. Jun 07, 2005 Tourism Growing Despite Obstacles Exchange rates and energy prices drive up travel costs. Jun 07, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending June 4 Chain store sales were mixed during the latest week. Jun 03, 2005 Shifting Incentives for Vehicle Buyers One of the factors supporting vehicle sales this year is growth in vehicle leasing. Jun 03, 2005 Retailer Executives Slightly More Confident Retailer performance index remains within the narrow band seen over the past year. Jun 02, 2005 May Retail Sales Likely to be Weak Modest chain store sales growth will be overcome by other negatives. May 31, 2005 Wal-Mart Weekly Sales Sales for May will improve from April, but will be at the low end of projections. May 27, 2005 Durables Lead Spending Again Spending growth on vehicles and autos abated but still remained strong in April. May 25, 2005 Housing Strong Again Strength in the single-family housing market will continue to fuel consumer spending. May 23, 2005 Outstanding Internet Retail Sales Growth Continues Greater high-speed internet accessibility has aided sales growth. May 20, 2005 More Restrictions on Apparel Imports China increases tariffs as the U.S. government acts. May 14, 2005 Commerce Department Announces Apparel Quotas Are Coming Exact timing and magnitude not announced. May 12, 2005 Retail Sales Growth Accelerates But the April acceleration is partially due to seasonal adjustment issues and may be misleading. May 10, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending May 7 Chain store sales gained on healthy Mother's Day sales. May 05, 2005 April Disappoints Retail Executives The early Easter was largely blamed for weak April activity. May 04, 2005 Vehicle Sales Rebounded in April Higher gasoline prices are affecting mix of vehicles sold, not the number of vehicles sold. May 03, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending April 30 Chain store sales indicators diverged again in the latest week. Apr 29, 2005 Energy Prices Continue to Weigh on Confidence But employment gains keep confidence range-bound since mid-2003. Apr 28, 2005 Consumers Lead Economy Again Real consumer spending growth outpaced economic growth in the first quarter as the saving rate fell. Apr 26, 2005 Consumer Confidence Weakens The Conference Board measure fell for the third month in April dropping below 100 for the first time this year. Apr 26, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending April 23 Chain store sales experience modest weakness during latest week. Apr 21, 2005 Regional Spending Activity The Beige Book shows generally healthy consumer activity, limited by high energy prices, except where the weather interfered. Apr 20, 2005 China Considering Higher Textile and Apparel Export Tariffs Duties as high as 50 U.S. cents per item may be imposed on categories with surging exports. Apr 19, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Week Ending April 16 Chain store indicators diverge for second consecutive week. Apr 13, 2005 Retail Sales in March Were Weak Disappointing report suggests real non-auto consumer spending in March was weak. Apr 12, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Ending April 9 Chain store sales indicators deviated sharply in latest week. Apr 07, 2005 Retailers' Executives Remain Upbeat Early Easter boosts March sales but fundamentals will continue to weigh on spending growth. Apr 05, 2005 Apparel Price Outlook Remains Cloudy The administration takes the first step toward new apparel quotas. Apr 04, 2005 Vehicle Sales Rebounded in March Higher fuel prices will change the mix of vehicles bought, not necessarily the number. Apr 04, 2005 Retail Sales Revisions Lower Growth in 2003 and 2004 Changes have no impact on the outlook. Mar 25, 2005 Home Sales Boost Spending, But Tide to Turn Home sales remain strong for February, a plus for consumer spending in the near term. Mar 23, 2005 Inflation Inches Higher Higher inflation and inflation expectations will restrain consumer spending growth over time. Mar 22, 2005 Weekly Sales Summary Chain store sales improved during the latest week; department store growth approaching discount counterparts. Mar 18, 2005 Gasoline Immunization; But Will it Last? Consumers are taking the latest surge in energy prices in stride. Mar 16, 2005 Weekly Sales Summary Sales growth has been modest so far in March, but better growth is coming. Mar 15, 2005 Strong Retail Sales Report Substantial upward revisions to January sales and healthy February growth suggest consumers are still spending aggressively. Mar 15, 2005 ICSC, Redbook Sales Ending Mar. 12 Weekly chain store reports diverged during the latest week. Mar 10, 2005 Apparel Prices Likely to Fall Increased imports from China will lower apparel prices, but not immediately. Mar 09, 2005 Spending Squeeze Forecast increases in gasoline prices will limit growth of other spending. Mar 03, 2005 Strong Sales Boost Retailer Optimism Retailers are more optimistic but consumer trends weaker than a year ago. Feb 16, 2005 Chairman Greenspan on Consumers “Household spending may well play a smaller role in the expansion going forward.” Feb 16, 2005 Possible Positives for Consumer Spending Increases in refinancing activity and housing starts may be positives for spending. Feb 03, 2005 January Retail Sales Looking Weak Positive chain store sales are outweighed by fall in auto sales. Jan 31, 2005 Solid Income and Spending Growth in December Microsoft dividend distorts data that shows healthy underlying growth. Jan 28, 2005 The Confidence-Spending Relationship Confidence is a reasonable indicator of spending trends, but only over the long-term. Jan 27, 2005
Another View of Labor Market Slack The Conference Board measures still indicate greater labor market slack than the unemployment rate. |
| Moody's Economy.com |
