Spending Slows, Jobs Improve, Inflation Moderates

Consumers eased holiday spending, hiring strengthened, inflation cooled, Americans shouldered tariff costs, and value meals boosted McDonald’s fourth-quarter growth.

Feb 13, 2026

Shoppers Slowed Spending in December

Shoppers were apparently not all that encouraged about the economy over the holiday season.

According to a report from the Commerce Department Tuesday, shoppers slowed down their spending in December (as compared to November). Read Full Article

Job Growth Climbed, Unemployment Fell: Commerce Report

Job growth was up and the unemployment rate was down a little, an economic tag-team that could impact decisions on interest rates at the next meeting of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

With job growth unexpectedly accelerating and the unemployment rate dipping slightly to 4.3%, the Fed may have room to consider leaving interest rates alone for awhile. Read Full Article

Fed Report Claims Americans Are Paying Tariff Costs

A report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York says American citizens are bearing nearly all of the burden placed on the economy by President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

The report, issued Thursday, said 90% of the tariffs imposed by the president on imported goods are borne by American consumers and businesses. The report seems to oppose the administration’s statements that the tariffs are paid by foreigners. Read Full Article

Consumer Prices Saw Slower Rise Than Expected in January

U.S. consumer prices increased less than expected in January, but underlying inflation firmed as businesses raised prices at the start of the year.

Those factors, along with a stabilizing labor market, could allow the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged for a while, according to a report from Reuters. Read Full Article

Value Meals Pace Growth for McDonald’s

The fourth quarter was kind to McDonald’s last year.

U.S. sales for the fast-food giant grew at the fastest pace in more than two years as value meals continued to resonate with cost-conscious diners. Read Full Article