U.S. retail sales unexpectedly rose 0.1% in August, with core retail sales increasing 0.3%.

U.S. retail sales increased by 0.1% in August, contrary to economists’ expectations of a 0.2% decline, according to the Commerce Department. This follows a revised 1.1% rise in July. Excluding motor vehicle sales, retail sales still rose by 0.1%. Growth was seen in miscellaneous and non-store retailers, while gas stations and electronics stores faced declines. Core retail sales, excluding certain categories, rose by 0.3%.