American shoppers spent more in May than anticipated. This boost came from tax refunds and a stock market rise. However, this spending has reduced savings. Higher gas prices also contributed to the sales jump. Experts predict a slowdown as the impact of tax refunds fades. The Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady.

Shoppers stepped up their spending in May, surpassing economists’ expectations, as temperatures warmed and gasoline prices cooled.

Shoppers increased their spending in May as temperatures warmed and gasoline prices cooled