July Spending Rose 0.2% as Americans Shifted From Goods to Services
Americans had more income in July, but inflation-adjusted spending was nearly flat as households bought fewer goods and spent more on services.
Americans had more income in July, but inflation-adjusted spending was nearly flat as households bought fewer goods and spent more on services.
The U.S. economy kept expanding in the second quarter, but slower GDP growth and a July retail-sales decline raise questions about consumer momentum.
June durable-goods orders rose 0.3%, while stronger business-equipment shipments pointed to continued investment amid uneven factory demand.
The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported slower U.S. economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, while June data showed continued increases in personal income, disposable income and consumer spending.
The U.S. economy expanded at a 1.5% annual rate in the second quarter as elevated inflation, fuel prices and borrowing costs continued to pressure households and businesses.
The economy grew 1.5% in the second quarter, but trade and inventories clouded the picture. Jobs, productivity and inflation data will test its strength.
The U.S. economy continued growing in the second quarter, but slower headline growth and elevated inflation could keep pressure on household budgets and rates.