Retail Sales Fall More Than Forecast, PPI Also Declines

The video discusses a significant decline in retail sales during December, with a 1.1% drop, exceeding forecasts. The control group, which affects GDP, fell by 0.7%. PPI data shows a decrease, indicating falling inflation, which the Fed favors. Car sales and gasoline prices contributed to the retail sales drop, with department stores and non-store retailers like Amazon also underperforming. PPI data reveals deflation in goods prices and a slight increase in core prices, raising questions about potential economic weakening.

What was the unexpected change in retail sales during December?

• An increase of 1.1%

• A decrease of 1.1%

• No change

• An increase of 2.1%

Which sector's sales were noted to have decreased by 1.2%?

• Car

• Electronics

• Grocery

• Clothing

What was the impact of falling gasoline prices on retail sales?

• Increased retail sales

• No impact on retail sales

• Retail sales remained stable

• Decreased retail sales

What trend was observed in goods prices according to the PPI?

• Inflation

• Deflation

• Stagnation

• Hyperinflation

What does the core PPI exclude?

• Only energy

• All goods and services

• Only food

• Food, energy, and trade services