(Washington) Consumption continued to grow in the United States in July, exceeding market expectations, as Americans saw their purchasing power strengthen, between slowing inflation and rising wages, according to the data released Tuesday by the Commerce Department.

In July, total retail sales amounted to $696.4 billion, up 0.7% from June, which was revised up slightly (0.3%). against 0.2% initially announced). This is a stronger rise than expected by analysts, who were rather considering 0.4%, according to the consensus published by briefing.com.