By Joseph Pisani
Retail sales fell in May, dragged down by a decline in auto sales and a shift by Americans to spend more on vacations and other services instead of goods.
Total sales dropped a seasonal adjusted 1.3% in May from the month before, the U.S. Commerce Department said Tuesday. Wall Street analysts expected a smaller decline of 0.5%.
Economists expected retail sales to drop last month because of the lack of cars available for sale due to a worldwide shortage of chips, which are needed to power in-car screens and other features. Sales at auto dealerships fell 3.7% last month, according to the Commerce Department.
Another reason for the decrease: As more people become vaccinated and head out more, Americans are spending more of their money on haircuts, trips and other services that are not included in Tuesday's report. Sales fell at furniture, electronics and home building stores last month.
“Consumer spending growth through the rest of the year will shift to services from goods,” wrote PNC chief economist Gus Faucher.
Sales at restaurants rose nearly 2%, according to Tuesday's report. And those seeking a new outfit to go out in helped sales at clothing stores rise 3%.
Google on Monday confronted the second major U.S. antitrust trial in two months to cast the internet powerhouse as a brazen bully that uses its immense wealth and people's dependence on one of its main products to stifle competition at consumers' expense.
Hilton Grand said it's in the process of purchasing Bluegreen Vacations in a $1.5 billion deal.
Walt Disney Co. named former PepsiCo veteran Hugh Johnston as its new chief financial officer.
The PlayStation 5 Slim will be reportedly released on Friday.
With the holiday season approaching, many are in the market for a new TV. Cheddar News breaks it all down.
Credit card usage is sure to tick up ahead of the holiday season. With cashback, airline miles and points to be earned, reward credit cards could give you a bonus. Grant Gallagher, associate vice president and head of financial well-being with Affinity Federal Credit Union, spoke with Cheddar News about why it's important to take advance of those rewards.
Tesla is increasing wages for factory workers in Germany.
People are making travel plans and booking tickets as the holiday season nears. Johannes Thomas, CEO of Trivago, joined Cheddar News to provide tips on saving when booking lodging ahead of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Elon Musk unveiled 'Grok,' his new A.I. chatbot over the weekend, adding that it will be more rebellious than its counterparts. Cheddar News breaks it down.
Heinz is combining two popular flavors for its new condiment, pickle ketchup.
