Events · who it helps and who it hurts

Retail sales

The monthly tally of what shoppers spent.

Next release: Oct 15, 2026 at 08:30 US/Eastern · Last release: Aug 1, 2026, read as hotter

The reads below are for when shoppers spend more than expected. Expect the opposite when spending falls short. Hotter was the last call.

Sectors

Consumer CyclicalUsually helpsThis report is the sector's own sales figure, printed monthly.

Consumer DefensiveUsually helpsGrocery and household goods are part of the same total.

Financial ServicesUsually helpsMore card swipes and consumer borrowing when spending is strong.

IndustrialsUsually helpsGoods have to be made and shipped before they are sold.

UtilitiesUsually hurtsUtilities fall when strong spending lifts rates.

Basic MaterialsLittle effectLittle direct link.

Communication ServicesLittle effectLittle direct link.

EnergyLittle effectLittle direct link.

HealthcareLittle effectLittle direct link.

Real EstateLittle effectShopping-centre landlords benefit slowly; rates matter more on the day.

TechnologyLittle effectConsumer gadgets sell better, but higher rates offset it on the day.

Where each sector’s relative strength sits this week is on the rotation board.

Credit ServicesUsually helpsCard networks earn a fee on every purchase.

Department StoresUsually helpsTheir own sales are in the report.

Internet RetailUsually helpsOnline spending is in the report.

Specialty RetailUsually helpsTheir own sales are in the report.

Auto & Truck DealershipsUsually helpsCar sales are the largest line in the report.

RestaurantsUsually helpsEating out is counted in the report.