Retail sales increased by 0.2% from Q4 '23 to Q1 '24 and surged 0.7% in March, surpassing expectations. Despite high interest rates and persistent inflation, consumer spending remains robust due to strong income growth relative to debt and new job opportunities. While sentiment is up 20% compared to the end of 2023, recent downward trends suggest concerns about the Fed's ability to control inflation. With CPI up 0.9% compared to the previous quarter, the Fed may delay rate reductions. E-commerce and general retailer sectors continue to thrive, both up over 1.5% as consumers prioritize essential, while spending on Personal Health and Home & Garden have both declined by more than2.5%.
Consumer spending remains robust
Consumer sentiment rises
Strong income growth relative to debt
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