US Retail Sales Miss Forecast: What Traders Should Watch
The #USRetailSalesMissForecast report for February 2026 showed retail sales stagnating at 0.0%, missing expectations of a 0.4% gain and marking a sharp slowdown from January’s 0.6% growth. This miss highlights weakening consumer demand, raising concerns about the resilience of the U.S. economy. For traders, such data is critical: softer retail activity often influences Federal Reserve policy, potentially shifting rate cut expectations. In crypto markets, disappointing retail sales can fuel volatility as investors reassess liquidity and risk appetite. Staying alert to these macroeconomic signals helps traders position strategically in uncertain conditions.