U.S. retail sales growth slowed sharply in April as the boost from households front-loading motor vehicle purchases ahead of tariffs faded and consumers pulled back on spending elsewhere against the backdrop of an uncertain economic outlook.

U.S. consumers spent slightly more at retail stores last month after ramping up their shopping in March to get ahead of tariffs.

The apprehension over the economy’s prospects, sparked by President Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs policy, was underscored by retail giant Walmart, which on Thursd