Consumer spending is up big in early April as people buy in anticipation of tariffs
1. Consumer spending rose 3.8% in early April due to tariff anticipation. 2. Discretionary spending increased by 4.3%, impacting economic outlook. 3. Preemptive consumer purchases may lead to future spending drop-off. 4. Businesses are stockpiling inventory ahead of higher tariffs. 5. Historical patterns suggest short-lived spending increases post-tariff implementation.