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US retail sales moderate in December amid inflation pressure
December retail sales moderated as consumers remained cautious.
US retail sales data for December showed moderated consumer spending as inflation and higher borrowing costs weighed on demand. Essential categories remained relatively stable, while discretionary purchases softened noticeably. Economists said cautious spending reflects pressure on household budgets. Policymakers are expected to closely monitor consumption trends as they evaluate economic momentum, labor conditions, and the outlook for future interest rate policy decisions.