Retail Sales Jump 1.4% In March As Consumers Buy Before Tariffs, Auto Sales Lead

U.S. retail sales jumped by 1.4% in March, surpassing expectations, according to CNBC. Excluding autos, sales rose by fifty basis points, also beating forecasts. A more than 5% increase led to the surge in auto and parts sales as consumers rushed to buy ahead of President Donald Trump’s upcoming tariffs. Building materials, sporting goods, and dining also saw notable gains, while gas station sales fell due to lower fuel prices. Spending remained strong, despite historically low consumer sentiment and inflation fears. Economists called it a blowout month as buyers anticipate higher prices.