U.S. shoppers, nervous about Trump’s policies, are cutting back on non-essential purchases

On March 17, 2025, the Department of Commerce published the retail sales figures for the U.S.A. In February, these increased moderately by 0.2% in a month, below the forecast of a rise of 0.6%. Sales of cars and car parts (down by 0.4%), electronics, department stores, bars and restaurants fell, proof that Americans are starting to tighten their belts. Services are not included here, but Delta Air Lines and American Airlines have also reduced Q1 forecasts, a sign that demand for travel is...