US business inventories rise less than expected in November as retail stocks fall
US business inventories rose 0.1 percent in November as a drop in retail stocks offset gains. Stronger sales helped reduce the time needed to clear shelves.
Business inventories in the United States 
US rose by 0.1% in November, according to data released by the U.S. Commerce Department Census Bureau. This increase was below the 0.2% rise that economists had previously forecast. The report provides a critical look at a volatile but essential component of the nation's gross domestic product (GDP), as the smaller-than-expected gain follows two consecutive quarters where inventory declines subtracted from overall economic growth.
US rose by 0.1% in November, according to data released by the U.S. Commerce Department Census Bureau. This increase was below the 0.2% rise that economists had previously forecast. The report provides a critical look at a volatile but essential component of the nation's gross domestic product (GDP), as the smaller-than-expected gain follows two consecutive quarters where inventory declines subtracted from overall economic growth.Within the report, the retail sector showed a notable decline in stocks. Specifically, motor vehicle inventories dropped by 0.9% during the month. The broader data set also includes figures from the wholesale sector and the manufacturing sector, which together with retail form the basis for the total business inventory calculation. These components are closely watched by institutions such as the Atlanta Federal Reserve for their impact on near-term GDP measurement and growth readings.
