Washington, DC CNN —Spending at US retailers tumbled much more than expected in January as cold weather across the United States kept shoppers at home after a robust holiday spending season.
Retail sales, which captures spending on all goods and food services, fell 0.8% in January, the Commerce Department reported Thursday, breaking a two-month streak of increases.
Spending declined across various categories last month, including at gas stations and home improvement stores, likely due to the cold weather, falling 1.7% and 4.1%, respectively.
January’s Arctic chill also reversed course later in the month in some parts of the country and it’s possible that retail spending could come roaring back in February.
“The Fed is likely to look through one month’s weak retail sales report, especially since there is an obvious explanation from a clearly temporary issue,” he said.
Persons:
it’s, Bill Adams, “, ”
Organizations:
DC CNN, Commerce Department, Comerica Bank
Locations:
Washington, United States