US Retail Sales for April were something of a disappointment, but the news was not all bad

US Retail Sales for April were something of a disappointment, but the news was not all bad. First off, sales increased by 0.1% for March, clearly disappointing those hoping March's brisk pace would continue. However, March's blowout retail sales had a lot to due with a recovery after the harsh winter weather. Chances were, the high-octane pace would not continue. More importantly, the annual rate of change for retail sales is still at 4%. Ultimately, higher consumer spending from last year is what's important to the US economy. What's more, April did see more consumers spending money at clothing stores and department stores. That's a great sign that US consumers may finally be loosening their purse strings. (VIEW LINK)