Another "green shoot" Killer

Even with the initial "Cash for Clunkers" surge in sales, total retail sales registered a 0.1% decline last month. Without autos, the decline was 0.6%. The consumer is clearly showing the effects of a high unemployment rate, stagnant wages, a depressed housing market and limited access to credit. Consumer activity is 70% or so of total economic activity, and any attempt at an economic recovery needs some participation from the consumer if it's to have any chance of success.