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U.S. retail sales strengthened in December, thanks to a late holiday-shopping rush that wrapped up a more moderate year of spending at the nation’s merchants.

WASHINGTON — U.S. retail sales rose moderately in August, driven higher by a jump in auto buying and healthy online sales. But there also were signs that consumers have become more cautious.

The impact of Target Corp.’s weekend register glitch won’t show up until the retailer discloses quarterly revenue in August, but it could have cost the company about $50 million in lost sales, according to one analyst.

The ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø Depot Inc. failed to fully rebound from a lackluster end to last year, with the company saying a calendar adjustment added to the drag from wet weather. Tariffs also weighed on the stock, with the company saying that a recent increase in duties isn’t included in its guidance.

U.S. retail sales jumped by the most since September 2017 as gains in motor vehicles and gasoline stations boosted sales, signaling consumers are giving the economy greater support.

U.S. retail sales unexpectedly eased in February on declines in grocery stores and building materials, which could reflect cooler weather, though also may signal further headwinds for the economy in the first quarter.

U.S. retail sales topped forecasts in November as a key measure jumped by the most in a year and October figures were revised higher, indicating consumers are giving a bigger boost to the economy than expected this quarter.

U.S. retail sales rose in October by the most in five months on purchases of autos, fuel and building materials, rebounding after Hurricane Florence may have depressed demand in September.

U.S. retail sales rose by less than forecast in August after an upwardly revised July gain as purchases of automobiles and clothing fell, suggesting households took a breather from spending.

U.S. retail sales rose by more than expected in March in the first gain in four months, suggesting consumer demand regained steam on the back of tax cuts and refunds.