Retail sales have see-sawed this year amid President Donald Trump's chaotic tariffs policy. A 25% global car and truck duty went into effect in April, unleashing a wave of pre-emptive buying by households eager to avoid higher motor vehicle prices.

Seven of the Commerce Department data report’s 13 categories posted decreases, also restrained by apparel — another good which is largely imported — as well as gasoline.

U.S. retail sales growth slowed in April as the boost from households front-loading motor vehicle purchases ahead of tariffs faded and households pulled back on other spending against the backdrop of an uncertain economic outlook.

U.S. retail sales growth slowed in April as the boost from households front-loading motor vehicle purchases ahead of tariffs faded and consumers pulled back on spending elsewhere against the backdrop of an uncertain economic outlook.

NEW YORK] Wall Street stocks finished mostly higher on Wednesday following a choppy session as markets look ahead to key US retail sales and inflation data. Read more at The Business Times.

U.S. retail sales growth slowed sharply in April as the boost from households front-loading motor vehicle purchases ahead of tariffs faded and consumers pulled back on spending elsewhere against the backdrop of an uncertain economic outlook.