Consumer spending

Consumer spending, which accounts for most of GDP, grew more in the second quarter than initially reported.

Over the last year, many retailers have been successfully using discounts to purge their excess inventories. Now, retailers might use discounts to lure skittish consumers.

Deflation has led to lost revenue for companies, layoffs, and decreased consumer spending.

Households feel their finances have been improving, the New York Fed says. But Americans appear to be racking up more credit card debt.

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index is up 40% over last year, aided by moderating inflation and job market strength.

Researchers use some video games to learn about spending behavior and how players respond to economic crises.

Retail sales were soft but not terrible in June. More importantly they are at least keeping up with inflation, and don't foreshadow a recession.

It could signal that wage and other cost pressures are easing or that sales are weakening and the economy is slowing.

Even with erratic demand, this Maine chocolatier is optimistic about a strong year for her business.

Tracking how shoppers feel is important — consumer spending makes up a whopping 70% of GDP.