US retail spending rises in October, but high prices strain consumers

US retail spending increased in October even as elevated prices continued to pressure household budgets, according to the latest data. The gain suggests consumers are still spending, but the combination of higher prices and steady outlays may be stretching budgets and could shift future spending habits and inflation expectations. The report matters because consumer demand is a key driver of economic growth and a major input for Federal Reserve policy decisions. What to watch next is whether spending holds up in November and December, and whether price pressures ease enough to relieve strain on household finances.