Retail sales dropped by 0.3% to $442.7 billion in September, following a 0.6% rise in August, according to U.S. Commerce Department figures. The uptick in August was the largest gain in four months.

Consumers may have spent more during the early U.S. Labor Day holiday, which could explain the up-down nature of spending in August and September.

Lower prices at the gas pump now add to consumers’ disposable income, which may benefit retailers.

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