Retail Sales Growth Shows Resilient Consumer Spending Despite Broader Economic Concerns
• Retail sales rose 0.6% in December, signaling consumers remain confident and able to drive economic growth
• Sales increased across categories like general merchandise, clothing, accessories, and online sellers
• Strong job market and rising wages are fueling spending despite high inflation, debt, and tighter credit
• Holiday retail sales from November-December were up 3.1% compared to 2021, a slower pace but more typical year
• Americans seem optimistic based on spending but polls show many still feel pessimistic about the economy overall