Retail Earnings Week: Consumer Health in Focus After Sales Miss; Target Beats, Lowe's Mixed

Retail sales missed badly (-0.6% vs +0.1% expected), signaling consumer weakness. This week brings key earnings from HD, LOW, TGT, and WMT. Target reported strong earnings, boosting sentiment. Lowe's reported an EPS beat but weak comparable sales and cut guidance, adding caution. Traders will watch for guidance and consumer spending trends. The results could move retail ETFs (XRT) and major indices.