# Two-thirds of respondents to a recent CBS News poll reported feeling financially stressed, while a majority said soaring gasoline prices are causing hardship.

*business · news · 2026-05-21 · CBS News*

## Key points

- Walmart reports strong sales with high-income shoppers increasing purchases across more categories.
- Typical U.S. household fuel costs rose $188 since the Iran war's start, per Brown University researchers.
- Average 2026 IRS tax refunds are 12% higher than last year, temporarily supporting consumer spending.
- Discretionary spending growth now diverges sharply by income, with low-income households cutting back most.
- Rising gas prices inflate retail sales data because fuel purchases are included in topline figures.

**Companies:** Walmart, Home Depot, Target, TJX
**Countries:** United States

[Read the full story on CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/walmart-retail-sales-consumer-spending-economy/)

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