U.S. retail sales increased by 0.2% in February, slower than the expected 0.6% rise, according to the Commerce Department’s advanced reading. Excluding autos, sales rose 0.3%, meeting expectations. The control group, which feeds into GDP calculations, rose a better-than-expected 1%. Online spending contributed to the monthly sales increase, with nonstore retailers reporting a 2.4% rise. Health and personal care sales gained 1.7%, while food and beverage outlets saw a 0.4% increase. However, bars and restaurants reported a 1.5% decrease, and gas station sales fell 1% due to lower pump prices. Overall sales increased 3.1% year-over-year, outpacing the 2.8% inflation rate. January’s retail sales decline was revised sharply downward to 1.2%. Economic growth concerns persist amid President Trump’s tariff battles, which could drive up inflation and slow the economy. — news from CNBC
