Retail sales fell unexpectedly in July
Retail sales fell unexpectedly in July  
Podcast: Marketplace All-in-One
Published On: Fri Aug 14 2026
Description: Forecasters predicted we’d see a slight increase in retail sales in July, but instead, Census Bureau data released this morning revealed a significant drop. As high energy prices persist and tax refunds run out, it appears that consumers have begun to pull back. Should we be worried? Plus: 200 Nebraskans have lost Medicaid coverage in the first wave of terminations under the government’s new “work requirements.” Many more Americans may soon follow.Stories featured in today’s episode:Roughly 200 people in Nebraska lost Medicaid on Aug. 1Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.