WASHINGTON —U.S. consumer confidence shot up to an 18-year high in September — good news for retailers as the holiday shopping season approaches.

WASHINGTON — U.S. wholesale prices fell unexpectedly last month for the first time since February 2017, pulled down by falling prices for transportation and warehousing services. The drop suggests that inflationary pressures may be easing despite the strength of the U.S. economy.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. trade deficit widened for the second straight month in July, reaching the highest level since February, as imports hit an all-time high. The deficit in goods with China and the European Union set records.

WASHINGTON — U.S. industrial production rose modestly last month, held down by drops in mining and utilities.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. trade deficit widened in June for the first time in four months as exports fell and imports grew. Politically sensitive trade gaps with China, Mexico and Canada increased.

WASHINGTON — U.S. factories grew at a slower pace in July, but American industry remains healthy despite growing concern about trade conflicts.

Americans were a bit less confident this month than they were in November, but their spirits remained high during the holiday shopping season.