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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 17, 2026Miami-Dade

Retail earnings and economic data drive mixed U.S. stock market performance

Major U.S. retailers are set to report second-quarter earnings this week amid concerns over slowing consumer spending and economic growth. Recent data shows a significant decline in retail spending for July, influencing market expectations regarding Federal Reserve interest rate policy.

economyretailinflationinterest ratesstock marketoil prices
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Why It Matters

The financial performance of major retailers and Federal Reserve policy decisions directly impact consumer prices, credit costs, and the overall stability of the U.S. economy.

Key Facts

  • U.S. retail spending in July experienced its largest decline in over a year.
  • Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowe's are scheduled to report second-quarter earnings this week.
  • The Federal Reserve is expected to release minutes from its July meeting this Wednesday.
  • Brent crude oil prices rose 1.1% to $89.50 per barrel.
  • Approximately 20% of the world's crude oil transits through the Strait of Hormuz daily.
  • The Japanese economy grew 0.3% in the second quarter of the year.
  • The U.S. dollar is trading at 159.17 Japanese yen.
  • The euro rose to $1.1600.

Who's Mentioned

organizationLowe's“Retailer reporting earnings”locationOman“Country involved in oil transit discussions”organizationWalmart“Retailer reporting earnings”organizationCommerce Department“Released retail spending data”locationStrait of Hormuz“Strategic oil transit route”locationIran“Country involved in oil transit discussions”organizationHome Depot“Retailer reporting earnings”personMichael Fiddelke“CEO of Target”otherS&P 500“Stock market index”organizationFederal Reserve“Central bank managing interest rates”organizationTarget“Retailer reporting earnings”otherNasdaq“Stock market index”otherDow Jones Industrial Average“Stock market index”