Retail Sales up 0.9% in May as the weather improved and gasoline prices cooled

Retail sales increased 0.9% in May, driven by warmer weather and lower gasoline prices, with a 0.7% rise excluding gas stations. Tax refunds in April and May contributed to the growth, though their impact is waning. The Iran war peace deal may ease gas prices, but analysts caution about lingering supply issues and shifting consumer habits.