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U.S. companies say consumer still strong even as broader outlook dims
Walmart became the latest company to point to a strong U.S. consumer, adding to a raft of firms in recent weeks citing healthy demand at a time when spending is seen as an increasingly key support for the economy. Several companies including banks and homebuilders have painted an upbeat picture of consumer health in conference calls this reporting season, even as many firms have offered more dour outlooks especially given the lingering U.S.-China trade war. Reports of strong demand from companies are a welcome sign to some in the market amid weakening manufacturing activity and a slump in business investment. Data ... (full story)