Retail sales growth in the United States in February fell short of expectations, and uncertainty led to low consumer confidence

According to BlockBeats, on March 17th, retail sales in the United States showed monthly growth in February, but lower than expected. The month on month decline in January sales was reduced from 0.9% to 1.2%. The report shows that out of 13 categories, only 5 categories saw an increase in sales in February compared to January: non physical retailers (representing e-commerce), general merchandise, healthcare and personal care, food and beverage, and building materials. These categories tend to be essential rather than non essential, so the growth in these areas indicates that consumers were cautious about their spending last month. Retailers warn of a weak start to February due to cold weather, delayed tax refunds, and increasing consumer uncertainty about the economy. Since January this year, consumer confidence has declined for three consecutive months, as Americans try to cope with the changing policies of the Trump administration, including from intermittent tariffs to extensive layoffs by the federal government. (Golden Ten)