December Retail Sales Flat, Missing Economist Expectations

December retail sales showed no growth compared to November, according to newly released Commerce Department data—falling well short of the 0.4% increase economists had predicted.

The flat numbers mark a notable shift in consumer behavior. Throughout last year, shoppers continued spending despite concerns about a stagnating job market and persistent inflation. December's results suggest those economic pressures may finally be weighing on how much people are willing to buy.

The data release was delayed by a month due to last year's government shutdown. It remains unclear whether the spending slowdown will continue into the new year.