US Economy Resilient: Retail Sales Crush Estimates
Key Questions
What were the March retail sales figures and how did they compare to estimates?
March retail sales rose +1.7% m/m versus +1.4% estimates and +0.7% prior; ex-auto sales increased +1.9% versus +0.7% prior. This beat underscores US economic resilience.
What other factors support the resilient US economy?
Strong earnings defied war and inflation pressures, with DOJ dropping the Powell probe. Citi flags potential overheating risks amid Iran oil tensions and possible Fed pause.
How does consumer sentiment contrast with retail sales data?
US consumer sentiment hit a record low in April due to inflation fears from the University of Michigan survey. This contrasts with robust March retail sales beating estimates.
Mar retail +1.7% m/m (+1.9% ex-auto) vs est; DOJ drops Powell probe, strong earnings defy war/inflation. Citi flags overheating risk with Iran oil, potential Fed pause.
Sources (2)
Updated Apr 25, 2026