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The S&P 500 index has experienced a strong 18% return in 2024, while stocks associated with the consumer sector have shown weaker performance, lagging behind the S&P 500 by more than eight percentage points.
Economic Outlook
The outlook for the economy and consumer sector indicates a potential decline in the upcoming months, with factors such as high prices, decreasing savings, a softening labor market, and a slowing economy being cited as reasons.
Despite this, June retail sales data indicated stability, as most stores reported increased spending, although overall sales remained flat due to declining gas prices and a cyberattack on auto dealers.
Concerns for the Consumer Sector
This presents a mixed picture for the consumer sector, with indications of stability alongside concerns about weakening consumer strength.
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