This chapter analyzes March's U.S. retail sales data, considering the impact of the escalating tariff war with China. Experts discuss the short-term boost from front-loading purchases and the long-term uncertainty affecting consumer spending and the economy.
March retail sales expected to show 1.3% monthly growth, but Q1 growth significantly lower than Q4 2024.
Tariff war creates uncertainty for consumers and businesses.
1% increase in average effective tariff rate creates about 15 basis points of drag on cumulative real GDP growth.
Auto sales surged in March due to front-loading but are expected to cool down.