U.S. retail growth beats expectations in August

WASHINGTON — U.S. retail sales rose by 0.4% in August, doubling analyst expectations of a 0.2% hike, with automotive and apparel categories leading the growth. Excluding motor vehicles, sales were flat for the first time since February. Though consumer confidence remains strong, it has receded slightly in the face of the ongoing U.S.-China trade war. Online sales continued their surge, increasing by 1.6%.