Retail sales show US consumer spending holds up, but 'almost everyone' is looking for deals

Retail Sales Performance - US retail sales in August rose by 0.6%, surpassing the expected 0.2% increase, indicating stronger consumer spending [1] - Sales at electronics and appliance stores increased by 0.3% during the back-to-school shopping month [1] Sector-Specific Sales Growth - Clothing and clothing accessories sales grew by 1%, while sporting goods, hobby, musical instrument, and book stores saw a rise of 0.8% [2] - Nonstore retailers, including e-commerce, experienced a sales increase of 2% [2] Consumer Behavior Insights - Best Buy's CEO noted that consumers are actively seeking value, with a bifurcation in spending habits where some are willing to spend on perceived great value items [3] - Best Buy reported low single-digit same-store sales growth in late August, particularly strong during the back-to-school period [3] Product Trends - Consumers are still willing to invest in new products, such as the Nintendo Switch 2 and Apple's updated product lineup, despite a focus on discretionary purchases [3][4] Broader Retail Trends - Other retailers, including Walmart and dollar stores, are observing high-income shoppers trading down to lower-priced options to maximize their spending [5] - Dollar General's CEO indicated that all customer cohorts, including mid- and high-end consumers, are currently seeking value [6]