How much households spend in shops and, more broadly, on goods and services. Consumer spending is the largest part of GDP in both Australia and the US.
The ABS household spending indicator covers most consumer spending each month; US retail sales cover goods sold by retailers and restaurants. Both are reported in dollars, so part of any rise is inflation, not more buying.
Why it matters
Spending reacts to interest rates, jobs, wages and confidence, and drives company revenues in retail, travel and services.
