MNI DATA PREVIEW: US Sept Retail Sales Seen +0.3% vs Aug +0.4%

     WASHINGTON (MNI) - Retail sales are expected to rise at a slightly slower

rate in September with consumer spending still driving the U.S. economy through

a global slowdown. Here are some highlights to look out for:

     -Sales are expected to rise 0.3% in September according to the Bloomberg

median, following a 0.4% increase in August. New and used vehicle prices dropped

in September, likely keeping September auto sales high. However, falling

gasoline prices should drive down gas station spending, which could hold down

the headline number.

- Expected monthly rise would be the seventh in a row. At the same time it would

be the weakest in that string of gains.

     - Excluding autos, retail sales are projected to increase 0.2% after a flat

reading in August, according to the Bloomberg median. Control group sales look

strong as well, poised to rise 0.4%. Steady readings here suggest a rising PCE. 

     - Consumer confidence has shown mixed signals. The Conference Board's index

fell to its lowest level in nine months in September at 125.1, while the smaller

University of Michigan survey climbed in September and again in October. 

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