1. Retail sector underperformed compared to S&P 500, gaining <8% this year. 2. Recent data shows positive momentum in retail, with 7% gain last 30 days. 3. Core PCE inflation moderated, signaling potential easing for consumer households. 4. Consumer sentiment rebounded but remains below previous year levels. 5. RETL ETF lost >3% YTD, but surged 17% in the past six months.