Economist on CPI, retail sales

US retail sales increased by 0.4% in December, slightly below estimates but still expected to boost fourth quarter GDP growth. The control group for retail sales surpassed estimates, rising by 0.7% month-over-month, indicating strong growth trends. Interactive Brokers Senior Economist José Torres discusses the data, highlighting the impact of volatile energy costs and potential risks from the Trump administration’s trade policies and labor issues on inflation and economic growth.

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