![The Slowing Consumer Thumbnail](https://static.twentyoverten.com/5b4ce714007b631437262f67/i3e1F3oWJ3w/Situation-Report-Graphic-2023.png)
The Slowing Consumer
As we roll into the summer months of 2024, we are starting to see some evidence of a slowdown in the economy. One of the most important areas to monitor is consumer spending, as it accounts for almost 70% of GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Through the first half of this year, consumer numbers have weakened and some retailers are warning about a slowdown in spending. So far, the stock market has not been fazed by this, in hopes that a slowdown leads to lower inflation and lower interest rates from the Federal Reserve soon.