AI Data Insight
In February 2026 (Q1 2026), US retail sales excluding autos reached $513.226 billion, rebounding sharply by 2.50% from the previous month and heavily beating the market consensus estimate of a 0.3% increase. Warmer weather and the effect of tax refunds drove a jump in buying interest for department stores, apparel, and health care, reflecting that the US consumer sector remained robust before the war. However, as the Middle East conflict pushes up oil prices, future disposable spending may be pressured, and subsequent momentum warrants high vigilance.