Retail sales in the United States fell by about 0.9% in May 2025 compared to the previous month, a worse result than market forecasts. The largest decline was recorded in the motor vehicle and parts sector (-3.5%), followed by the building materials and garden equipment sector (-2.7%) and gas stations (-2%). This decline follows a slight drop in April and indicates consumer pullback due to expected tariffs and other economic factors. Meanwhile, retail sales in the Eurozone rose slightly in February, marking the first increase after five months of decline.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the impact of economic policies and trade tensions on consumer spending, highlighting how tariffs and economic uncertainty are causing a decline in retail sales. They may also focus on the struggles of working-class consumers and the need for stronger social safety nets to support demand.
Center: Centrist sources report the data factually, noting the decline in US retail sales and the sectors most affected, while also mentioning the slight growth in the Eurozone. They provide balanced analysis on economic indicators and potential causes such as tariffs and market expectations without strong political bias.
Right: Right-leaning sources may focus on the resilience of the economy despite the decline, emphasizing that the drop is minor and temporary. They might attribute the decline to market adjustments and consumer behavior rather than policy failures, and highlight positive signs such as growth in other regions or sectors.