Recent data indicates that US retail sales unexpectedly edged up by 0.1% in August, defying negative forecasts and surpassing Wall Street estimates. This growth has led to a buoyant sentiment about the economy, with analysts noting that households appear to have the 'underpinnings to spend.' Online sales have played a significant role in this increase, contributing to the overall positive outlook. Despite concerns about potential economic slowdowns, the data suggests that the US economy remains on solid ground, with retail sales helping to push the Atlanta Fed's GDPNow forecast up to +3.0% for Q3. As the Federal Reserve approaches a policy decision, the strength in retail sales complicates expectations regarding interest rate cuts. Economists are describing the current consumer landscape as resilient, with household spending continuing to hold firm.