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January Retail Sales Rise 1.1%, Strong Q1 Ahead

3/20/2026

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Story summary
  • Bank of Montreal projects January retail sales to rise 1.5%, reversing December's decline.
  • Statistics Canada reports January retail sales rose 1.1% to $70.7 billion, led by motor vehicle sales, while oil and gas prices may affect inflation and spending.
  • Core retail sales excluding fuel and vehicles rose 0.9%.
  • Scotiabank expects a strong first quarter start and notes February may show a 0.9% gain.