Retail Sales Rebound as Consumer Confidence Climbs

Retail sales rose 4.2% in February compared to the same month last year, according to figures from the national statistics bureau — the strongest monthly growth since August 2024.

The rebound was led by clothing and home furnishing sectors, which saw gains of 6.1% and 5.8% respectively. Grocery spending remained flat.

"Consumers are cautiously opening their wallets again," said retail analyst Petra Lindgren. "Lower inflation and stable employment are restoring the confidence that was missing all of last year."